On 25th March, Guy Moreton and I had the privilege of attending the Modern Slavery Intelligence Network (MSIN) Conference at Tesco's Head Office. MSIN is a pioneering non-profit collaboration within the UK’s food and agriculture sector. By collaborating and sharing ideas, MSIN members generate fresh insights and help to protect those most vulnerable to labour exploitation. The day was both eye-opening and thought-provoking, with discussions focused on the root causes of modern slavery, how it can be identified in businesses and supply chains, and the practical actions organisations can take to combat it. We also explored the role of AI and digital solutions in identifying and preventing exploitation in the sector.
A standout moment was learning about the incredible work of Bright Future Co-op, which supports survivors in rebuilding their lives by helping them back into employment. Bright Future Co-operative has pioneered initiatives that provide survivors of modern slavery with not only immediate employment opportunities but also long-term support and integration. By partnering with ethical employers, Bright Future is helping survivors rebuild their lives and break the cycle of exploitation, ensuring they have the stability to thrive in a fairer food industry.
Modern Slavery in the UK Food Industry: Causes, Identification and Solutions
Modern slavery is a pervasive issue in the UK food industry, affecting workers across farming, fishing, food processing, and hospitality. The root causes of exploitation are complex but largely stem from the following factors:
1. Low wages & the demand for cheap food: Exploration can occur from pressures to keep food prices low, particularly in supermarkets, to encourage cost-cutting practices. It provides an area for vulnerability and more susceptible to exploitation.
2. Dependence on seasonal and migrant labour: The UK food industry, especially in areas like fruit picking and fishing, relies heavily on seasonal labour. The likes of temporary contracts, cash-in-hand payments or limited rights could encourage exploitation.
3. Hidden exploitation in supply chains: Modern slavery can occur deep within business supply chains, hidden from consumers and even some retailers. If faced with long hours, poor pay or coercive conditions, the fear of job loss may prevent them from reporting exploitation.
Practical actions and strategies for businesses
To combat modern slavery effectively, we learnt that businesses in the UK food industry must take decisive action.
1. Strengthen Recruitment & Employment Practices. This can be done by ensuring contracts are fully understood, salaries are paid fairly and adhered to legal minimums with direct payment to the workers only. You can conduct check-ins to assess any signs of uncertainty and create a safe space environment, enabling them to feel safe about reporting exploitation, should they have to.
2. Improve Supply Chain Transparency. Ensure all parties involved in the supply chain are officially recorded within the business, whilst ensuring all staff adhere to ethical practices.
3. Utilise AI. Tools such as data and predictive analytics can be used to monitor the risk factors and areas of concern before the exploitation occurs. It can be used as a preventive tool to proactively prevent the exploitation of workers.
Modern slavery in the UK food industry is a deeply rooted issue, but businesses can make a real difference by adopting the right strategies. Strengthening recruitment practices, increasing supply chain transparency and harnessing the power of AI are essential steps in tackling exploitation. Furthermore, collaboration between businesses, governments, and ethical organisations is critical to ensure that every worker in the food industry is treated with dignity and respect.
MSIN are looking for additional members to join this critical fight to protect vulnerable workers. If your business wants to be part of a movement that can truly change lives, please contact claire.donovan@msin.org.uk for more details.
