Responding to disclosure, suspicion or immediate danger

A person may disclose exploitation directly, hint that they are trapped, or show signs of immediate danger. Your response should be calm, practical and focused on safety.

People may test whether it is safe to speak. They may withdraw a comment, say they were joking, or become silent if someone accompanying them returns. Such behaviours are reasons to record and escalate, not to assume there is no problem.

Respond safely

• Stay calm and listen without showing shock or disbelief.
• Do not confront the suspected exploiter or tell them that a concern has been raised.
• Do not promise secrecy or a specific outcome
• Check immediate danger and urgent health needs according to local protocol.
• Escalate through safeguarding or emergency routes depending on the level of risk.

Useful wording

• "I am glad you told us."
• "I cannot promise secrecy, but I will only share this with people who need to help keep you safe."
• "Are you in immediate danger now?"
• "What is the safest way for us to contact you?"
• "I need to pass this to the right person in the practice."

Emergency action

If someone may be controlled or trafficked, unsafe confrontation can increase danger.