IOM takes a comprehensive approach to trafficking in persons within the wider context of managing migration. IOM's wide range of activities is implemented in partnership with governmental institutions, embassies, NGOs and international organizations. The approach is based on three principles that govern all counter trafficking activities:

• Respect for human rights
• Physical, mental and social well-being of the individual and his or her community
• Sustainability through institutional capacity building of governments and civil society

IOM has been working to counter the trafficking in persons since 1994. In this time, the Organization has implemented almost 500 projects in 85 countries, and has provided assistance to approximately 15,000 trafficked persons.

IOM in the UK

In the UK, IOM is developing a comprehensive approach to the prevention of human trafficking for forced labour and/or sexual exploitation through awareness-raising and the protection of victims through direct assistance.

Our activities include:

• Training and Capacity Building: for consular staff in the UK on screening, identification and protection of victims of trafficking;
• Direct assistance to Victims of Trafficking: In cooperation with partner agencies and IOM missions worldwide, IOM UK facilitates repatriation and reintegration assistance for victims of trafficking who wish to go home.
• Buy Responsibly Campaign: IOM UK is launching Buy Responsibly a campaign aimed at raising awareness about human trafficking for forced labour. To find out more visit www.buyresponsibly.org

As part of direct assistance support IOM UK offers referral, return and reintegration assistance to victims of trafficking in collaboration with partner agencies in the UK and all enquiries to IOM UK are treated confidentially.

IOM UK Support to Victims of Trafficking

IOM UK adopts a multi agency approach through coordination and consensus among relevant stakeholders in organizing the referral, return and reintegration assistance for victims of trafficking who wish to return to their home country. We work closely with agencies such as the POPPY Project, Police, UK Human Trafficking Centre and the UK Border Agency to provide specialist support to victims of trafficking.

All IOM UK assistance to victims of trafficking is based on

• Respect for and protection of human rights
• Informed consent
• Non-discrimination
• Confidentiality and right to privacy
• Individualized treatment and care

IOM UK Reintegration Process

IOM UK will prepare an individual return plan for victims of trafficking. The return plan could include assistance from IOM for the following areas

• Family reunification/mediation support where appropriate
• Medical/health care support such as psychosocial care
• Support for temporary accommodation
• Educational/vocational training/apprenticeships
• Support for Income-generating activities such as support for a business start up

IOM UK is fundraising to assist victims of trafficking of the EU / EEA area, who are not eligible to access funding under the current system. To find out more about the Victim Fund, please click here. If you would like to make a donation, please click on the link below: