Dr Caroline Emberson addresses modern slavery in the care sector

On Monday 25 March 2024, Dr Caroline Emberson, previously a Research Fellow in Slavery and Domestic Servitude at the University of Nottingham’s Rights Lab and now Assistant Professor in Operations Management at Nottingham University Business School, took part in a discussion at the House of Lords regarding the Modern Slavery Act 2015 Committee.

This session centred on modern slavery within the care sector and assembled experts and stakeholders to address pressing issues and explore effective solutions.

Joining Dr Emberson on the panel were Adis Sehic, Senior Policy and Research Officer at the Work Rights Centre, a non-governmental organisation, and Peter Wieltschnig, Policy and Networks Officer at Focus on Labour Exploitation. Together, they brought valuable insights into combating modern slavery within the care industry.

The Inquiry Committee's questions indicated their concerns about the severity of the problem. Among the key concerns raised were the prevalence of exit fees and clawback clauses, the adequacy of the current legal framework defined by the Modern Slavery Act, the effectiveness of the National Referral Mechanism (NRM), and strategies for deterring those who profit from modern slavery.

The session provided a vital platform for advancing dialogue and action against modern slavery in the care sector. Dr Emberson's expertise, alongside that of her fellow panellists, contributed valuable insights and perspectives to this ongoing effort. As stakeholders continue to collaborate and innovate, there remains promise for meaningful progress in eradicating modern slavery and ensuring justice for all workers.

The full session can be viewed on parliamentary TV