Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking

This guide from Right to Remain (last updated February 2025) covers the key legal definitions around exploitation, modern slavery, trafficking, and smuggling, and explains how these differ from one another. It walks survivors through the full National Referral Mechanism (NRM) process — from referral by a first responder organisation, through reasonable and conclusive grounds decisions, to Temporary Permission to Stay — and distinguishes the NRM from the asylum process. The guide highlights common issues such as severe delays and pressure on the system, lists authorised first responder organisations across England & Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, and signposts specialist support organisations. It is a general introduction intended for survivors and those supporting them, and is not a substitute for specialist legal advice.