Government clears modern slavery case backlog

In a significant move, the government has successfully cleared the backlog of modern slavery cases that had accumulated, a step aimed at providing victims with faster recognition and aiding timely removals of those with no right to stay in the UK. The National Referral Mechanism, which is the UK’s framework for identifying and supporting potential victims, had been overwhelmed, leaving many victims in a state of uncertainty.

The Home Office has confirmed that it has fulfilled its 2024 promise to eradicate this backlog within a two-year timeframe, resulting in a notable reduction in pending cases. Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls Satvir Kaur said, "We inherited an inefficient modern slavery system completely out of control. Two years ago, we promised to end the unacceptable delays. We have delivered on that promise."

This commitment has been crucial in restoring order to a system that previously left survivors waiting too long for the certainty they deserved. Kaur further noted, "Fulfilling this commitment means that we can identify and protect victims more quickly, tackle misuse, and go after criminal gangs profiting from human misery."

Recent statistics indicate that as of 30 September 2026, only 6,277 cases were still awaiting a decision on victim status, reflecting an impressive 80% decrease from a peak of 31,101 cases in 2023. The expedited decision-making process plays a vital role in alleviating the burden on survivors, enabling them to begin their recovery sooner and also removing barriers for individuals without rights who could otherwise disrupt removal processes.

In conjunction with the backlog clearance, the government has introduced the Immigration and Asylum Bill, which aims to strengthen protections for victims while preventing abuse of the system by those seeking to obstruct legitimate removals. This legislation will bolster law enforcement capabilities and enforce stricter responsibilities on businesses and public bodies to address exploitation within their supply chains.

Further reforms have altered Immigration Rules, allowing victims of modern slavery on skilled worker visas to work for any employer for the remainder of their visa duration. This change reduces their waiting time for a conclusive grounds decision, thereby enabling them to escape exploitative situations and move on with their lives.

Overall, the combined efforts to clear the backlog and implement new policies are expected to identify victims more efficiently, protect them from further exploitation, and enhance public confidence in the modern slavery support system.