1 Life, 1 Voice
Diocesan Education staff, Mothers' Union and others are collaborating on a project known as '#1Life1Voice', raising awareness on the various forms of modern slavery, with a campaign to follow in October this year.
Debbie Heritage, School Improvement Advisor, says:
"We hope to stimulate local action and a coming together to address some of the issues that exist within our communities across the Diocese. Modern slavery exists in Dorset, Wiltshire and neighbouring counties.
"#1Life1Voice: 1 Life because each and every life is precious and of great worth. 1 Voice because we need to stand up against the cruelty and injustice of all forms of slavery and work as a community to ensure our most vulnerable children, young people and adults are protected in society from those who wish to abuse and destroy their lives and their right to freedom.
"Did you know 40 million people are estimated to be trapped in modern slavery worldwide?
- 1 in 4 of them are children
- Almost three quarters (71%) are women and girls
- Over 10,000 were identified as potential victims by the authorities in the UK in 2019
"The DBE is working with a range of partners including parishes, schools, Salisbury Cathedral, the Clewer Initiative (The Church of England campaign arm against modern slavery), the Police and the Mothers Union to name but a few. We are also working with some of our Community Hubs and are very keen to develop this work further.
"The project itself is set around Anti-Slavery Day (October 18th) and is covering a range of activities and opportunities to learn and explore modern slavery which we hope will bring our community together in understanding the significance of this across the Diocese.
"We have organised for an Art Exhibition to be held at Salisbury Cathedral which is to be opened by Bishop Karen on Friday 15th October at 5.00pm. The artwork is being completed by young people across the Diocese and will reflect their understanding and thoughts on the various forms of modern slavery.
"During the week beginning Sunday 17th October, there will be guest speakers who come from a range of backgrounds and organisations who will be delivering virtual sessions in which all members of the community (the public, parish, schools, and professionals) will be welcome to attend. Further information and booking information will be shared on the Salisbury Diocesan website in the near future."
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