A mobile exhibition raising awareness about human trafficking and modern day slavery will be in Preston city centre on Saturday 24 November.

The exhibition will be located on the Flag Market, Preston and will take visitors on an interactive journey, telling the story of slavery as they walk through different rooms.

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There will also be a number of stalls around the town, volunteers from the Lancashire Police Cadets and Soroptomists will handing out leaflets, and the branded Freedom Bus covered with anti-slavery messages, will travel around Preston city centre stopping in various locations to provide information to communities.

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Sergeant Abi Finch-Hall from Lancashire Police said: “Unfortunately modern day slavery and human trafficking is still happening today, often in our streets and neighbourhoods with many people unaware.

“This is a key initiative involving partners such as the police, the police and crime commissioner, NHS, charities and councils and location businesses.

“This event will be replicated in many more towns around Lancashire over the coming months, following our first successful event in Blackburn in September.

Leader of Preston City Council, Councillor Matthew Brown, said: “Raising awareness of human trafficking and being able to spot the signs of modern day slavery can only help build community cohesion across Preston.

“If we look out for each other, then the most vulnerable in our communities may not be preyed upon in this way.”

Clive Grunshaw, Police and Crime Commissioner added: “Tackling modern slavery and human trafficking is a key priority for us in Lancashire. Events like this help to build awareness around the county so more people can spot the signs and report any concerns to the police, helping officers to take the necessary action to protect the vulnerable victims we know are out there.

“I am proud that the resources I have put into this area place us at the forefront of anti-trafficking work, making our communities safer.

“By working together, sharing information with authorities and supporting victims we can tackle this serious and often hidden crime.”

Read more: Seven members of human trafficking gang jailed as diary reveals emotional torture of victims 

The event takes place from 10am and has been organised by The Pan Lancashire Anti-Slavery Partnership, which was set up to work collaboratively with public authorities, voluntary and charity sectors and local businesses, in the fight against human trafficking and modern day slavery.

A key part of the work is focused on raising public awareness of what the issues are, the different types of slavery and trafficking and how to spot the signs.

Modern slavery could be happening right in front of you.  For advice and support for victims and those with suspicions, please call the modern slavery helpline on 08000 121 700 or visit Lancashire.police.uk/modernslavery