The Modern Slavery Victims' Voices Exhibition is a joint initiative between West Yorkshire Police, the West Yorkshire Anti-Slavery Partnership and charities Palm Cove Society, Hope for Justice, Justice and Care and Ashiana. It tells the real stories of victims and provides information on how people can help bring modern slavery to an end. 

The exhibition is currently on a five-week tour and will be on display in the University's Atrium, Richmond Building, for a week from Monday, October 30. 

Dr Gareth Addidle, Associate Professor in Criminology, who is hosting a special reception for invited guests at the university as part of the tour, said; "Hosting the exhibition and the launch of the Modern Slavery and Trafficking tour at the University of Bradford solidifies the hard work and importance of our partnership with West Yorkshire Police and partners across West Yorkshire in tackling modern issues. 

"We want to raise issues, highlight good practice and most importantly, provide a voice for those who have been victims of such heinous crimes. I hope this exhibition helps the public and our students understand the impact of modern slavery and trafficking and to be able to spot the signs."

Buildings and landmarks are lit up in red for Anti-Slavery Day, which have previously included famous spots such as 10 Downing Street, the Blackpool Tower and Edinburgh Castle. This year, the following University buildings will be lit red: Richmond Atrium, Richmond Road entrance, Horton D main staircase, Student Central Sports bar, Student Central Amp and J.B.Priestley walkway. 

'Horrendous abuse'

Detective Chief Inspector Townley, of West Yorkshire Police, said: "Modern slavery is a serious crime, victims are controlled or held captive, using threats of, or the use of force towards themselves or their families. In many cases preventing victims escaping or reporting the crime. 

"Modern slavery remains hidden in plain sight. Anyone can be a victim of modern slavery, however, some people are more vulnerable due to financial, social or health issues. A person's age or immigration status can also be a significant factor in them falling victim.

"Modern slavery and human trafficking are happening in every area of West Yorkshire. People can do something to prevent this happening by recognising the signs of modern slavery."

Alison Lowe, OBE, Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime and Chair of the West Yorkshire Anti-Slavery Partnership, said: "Modern slavery is a horrendous abuse of human rights and it's something we should all be alive to in our communities. 

"This new exhibition brings the plight of victims to life, trapped in abhorrent situations with no escape. I'd recommend everyone visit, to pay respects to those harmed, and to find out how we can stop it together."

The modern slavery exhibition will be on display at venues across the country from October 16 to November 19. It is free to attend. 

• October 16 - 22: Dewsbury Road Community Hub, 190 Dewsbury Road, Leeds, LS11 6PF
• 23: Calderdale College, Francis Street, Halifax, HX1 3UZ
• October 24: Oak Gallery, Bankfield Museum, Boothtown Rd, Halifax, HX3 6HG
• October 25: Todmorden Town Hall, Ackroyd Park, Boothtown Rd, Todmorden, HX3 6HG
• October 26: Smith Art Gallery, Brighouse Library, Halifax Rd, Brighouse, HD6 2AF
• October 27: Hebden Bridge Community Association, Hebden Town Hall, St George’s Street, Hebden Bridge, HX7 7BY
• October 30 - November 5: University of Bradford, Richmond Building, Richmond Road, Bradford, BD7 1DP
• November 6 - 7: Huddersfield Customer Service Centre, Civic Centre, 3 Market Street, Huddersfield, HD1 2YZ
• November 8 - 12: Dewsbury Library, Unit D, Railway Street, Dewsbury Centre, Dewsbury, WF12 8EQ
• November 13 - 19: The Ridings Centre, Wakefield, WF1 1YD  

To report modern slavery contact West Yorkshire Police by calling 101 or go online at www.westyorkshire.police.uk/101livechat or call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Always call 999 in an emergency.
Find out more about modern slavery and human trafficking, and the signs to look for, here.