New figures show the number of potential trafficking victims in the UK has reached an all-time high—but campaigners warn the system meant to support them is failing. Long delays, poor decision-making, and lack of trust in the government’s protection framework are leaving survivors in limbo, some for years.

Referrals climb while faith in the system declines

The number of potential victims of modern slavery referred into the UK’s protection system reached its highest annual level on record last year. This trend has only continued into 2025.

Between April and June 2025, 5,690 people were referred to the UK’s National Referral Mechanism (NRM)—the highest number in a single quarter since the system began in 2009, and a 32% rise from the same period last year. The majority were men and boys, many exploited through criminal and labor exploitation, while women more often reported sexual exploitation.

But while the number of referrals is rising, survivor support is lagging. As of June, over 11,500 people were still awaiting a final decision after receiving an initial positive finding. The average wait is 304 days, but some survivors are left waiting up to five years. This is a long time to be cut off from work, housing and legal status.

The Independent reports,

Independent anti-slavery commissioner Eleanor Lyons argued the system as it stands is not working for victims.

She said: “Today’s figures show that a record numbers of victims of modern slavery are being exploited on our streets and in our communities.”

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