University of Derby to host public forum on Modern Slavery

Members of the public are invited to a free forum at the University of Derby on modern slavery and human trafficking, to hear what is being done locally to tackle this challenging issue. 

The ‘Parallel Worlds, Hidden Lives’ event, presented by the University of Derby Chaplaincy and Churches Together in Buxton, is taking place at the Devonshire Dome in Buxton on Wednesday 18 April from 7.30-9.30pm. Attendees will hear from a panel of experts about how organisations and the community can work together to put an end to modern slavery.

Guest speakers at the event will include:

• Detective Chief Inspector Paul Tatlow, Serious and Organised Crime Lead at Derbyshire Constabulary
• The Rt Revd Dr Alastair Redfern, the Bishop of Derby
• Michelle Collins, Community Safety Manager at Derbyshire County Council
• Dave Walsh, Professor of Law at De Montfort University

Ingrid Keith, Chaplaincy Co-ordinator and Ecumenical Chaplain at the University’s Buxton Chaplaincy, said: “Although most people are now aware of modern slavery and people trafficking, there are still some who have no idea that it’s happening right under our noses here in Derbyshire.   

“At the forum, attendees will be able to hear about the local situation from the Police and County Council staff who have been at the sharp end of identifying and liberating victims. They’ll also find out how the University and church communities have joined a county-wide partnership that is building a movement to end modern slavery – and what our part could be in that.”