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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Aine Fox

Modern slavery victims found working in supermarkets and convenience stores

Slavery UNSEEN
  • Reported instances of modern slavery in the UK retail sector nearly doubled between 2024 and 2025, according to anti-slavery charity Unseen.
  • Unseen identified 201 prospective victims in 2025, with the majority of cases taking place in supermarkets and convenience stores .
  • Exploited workers, predominantly from Sri Lanka, India and Pakistan, were frequently brought to the UK on skilled worker visas for entry-level roles.
  • Victims reported having wages withheld, living in employer-tied accommodation and facing threats of visa revocation or police report.
  • The Home Office has stripped over 6,600 rogue sponsor licences and introduced rule changes from 8 October allowing victims to leave abusive employers.

IN FULL

Modern slavery victims being ‘exploited in plain sight’ across UK retail sector

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