Unseen Lives: The Hidden World of Modern Slavery

290 Pages·2021·1.124 MB·English

by  Kate Garbers

‘An inspiring, powerful book and a clear explanation of the development
of modern slavery and the responses to it over the last 20 years. Written
with humility and warmth, it demonstrates what an individual can do
to really make a difference.’
– Dame Sara Thornton DBE QPM,
the UK’s Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner
‘Kate’s compelling case studies reveal the agonising decisions survivors
and their support workers must face in a system fit for purpose on paper,
but that in reality offers very little, and risks re-traumatisation, criminali-
sation and even in some cases re-trafficking. Her book’s recommendations,
including from survivors themselves, alongside her message of empathy
provide a powerful guide for both the public and policymakers alike.’
– Tamara Barnett, Director of Operations,
Human Trafficking Foundation
‘A beautifully written and eye-opening book that draws from the author’s
unique front-line experience over more than a decade. This is an absolute-
ly essential read, full of engagement with survivors, deep research, and
fresh ideas for how we can see, hear, understand, and confront modern
slavery in our society.’
– Professor Zoe Trodd, Director of the Rights Lab
‘This is a must-read book for anyone who wants to understand one of
the gravest problems of contemporary society. Kate has managed to give
voice to the unseen, provoke and challenge us to understand how as
ordinary citizens we are all deeply implicated in exploitation, trafficking,
and slavery, but at the same time she wants us to dig deeper and think
about how to bring about change. Brilliant and hugely important.’
– Samantha Knights QC, Matrix
‘An intelligent and authoritatively written book based on evidence. Every
survivor is different, every agency has different thresholds and criteria,
and it is no surprise that we have a messy, dysfunctional system tackling
modern slavery.
This book should be read by those who know very little, but also
maybe more importantly by those who think they know it all. As a
former Police and Crime Commissioner and magistrate, I recognise that
the author brings clarity to a confused scenario. Solutions are neither
clear nor straightforward. Victims have limited choices, or no choice. The
least worst choice just reminds us that this is our responsibility to know
more. All our agencies and the public need to know the signs, to listen
to our gut feeling. The “them” and “us” are clearly articulated. Under
different situations, “us” could become “them”. This book is not about
“do gooding”. It’s not about telling victims what to do, it’s about giving
them the power to make choices with knowledge.’
– Sue Mountstevens, Former Police and Crime Commissioner,
Avon & Somerset, 2012–2021
‘This is a very personal moving story of the journey of one determined
woman who decides that listening to the experiences of the victims of
trafficking is not enough. Her response to the harrowing testimonies we
read about is to set up the charity UNSEEN and champion the cause of
victims to Government. Kate Garbers shows us that she is more than a
campaigner, as you will find when you read her book. She cares deeply
and hopes that you will as well and then act. The question she is really
posing to us all is will we?’
– Lord Coaker House of Lords, Former Co-Chair of
All Party Parliamentary Modern Slavery Group
UNSEEN LIVES

UNSEEN LIVES
THE HIDDEN WORLD OF MODERN SLAVERY
KATE GARBERS
First published in Great Britain in 2022 by Jessica Kingsley Publishers
An Hachette Company
1
Copyright © Kate Garbers 2022
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A CIP catalogue record for this title is available from the
British Library and the Library of Congress
ISBN 978 1 78592 635 8
eISBN 978 1 78592 636 5
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To all those who have dedicated their time, energy, and
resources supporting people, trying to help, fighting for
what is right. Thank you and keep going!