A new initiative in London is offering migrants with uncertain immigration statuses; a way to report abuse and exploitation without fear of their personal information being shared with immigration authorities. The project, led by the charity Focus on Labour Exploitation (FLEX), aims to protect vulnerable individuals while addressing systemic barriers to justice.
Funded by a £50,000 grant from London Mayor Sadiq Khan, this two-year research program is part of a broader £1.1 million investment to support migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers across the city. The initiative reflects the mayor’s commitment to standing up for migrant workers’ rights, a promise he reiterated during his re-election campaign earlier this year.
Peter Wieltschnig, project coordinator at FLEX, emphasized the importance of the program, calling it a “courageous step forward” in ensuring all Londoners can report abuse safely. “Exploiters are increasingly using immigration policies as tools for trafficking,” he explained, highlighting the need for a secure and supportive reporting mechanism.
Why is this project necessary?
Research commissioned by City Hall last year revealed widespread issues faced by migrant workers in London. These include bullying, discrimination, late or unpaid wages, and even sexual harassment, particularly affecting women in sectors like cleaning, care, and hospitality. The findings underscore the urgent need for better protections and access to justice for migrant communities.
The funding will enable FLEX to conduct focus groups and interviews with community organizations that assist migrant victims of crime. This research will aim to uncover the barriers preventing victims from seeking help and propose solutions to overcome these challenges. By the end of the program, FLEX hopes to create a practical guide to help various agencies implement secure reporting practices.
Debbie Weekes-Bernard, London’s deputy mayor for communities and social justice, praised the initiative as a lifeline for vulnerable individuals. “Migrant workers and survivors of abuse, exploitation, and modern slavery are among the most at-risk people in our city,” she said. “This program will help ensure they can report crimes without fear, providing a path to safety and justice.”
The secure reporting pilot is just one part of Mayor Khan’s broader efforts to support survivors of abuse and combat exploitation. FLEX is optimistic about the program’s potential impact and hopes to secure additional funding in the next financial year to expand its reach.
With this initiative, London is taking a significant step toward protecting migrant communities and ensuring that justice is accessible to all, regardless of immigration status.