Stop the Traffik
700. Julia Pugh
A nurse from Manchester has founded the Manchester branch of a global charity set up to prevent modern slavery.
Julia Pugh founded the Manchester branch of ‘Stop the Traffik’ in 2009, after seeing the horrors of modern slavery first hand when volunteering with ‘World Mission’ in Thailand. Since founding the group, she has brought together a team of over 100 volunteers, and has delivered professional training sessions to over 300 people.
Julia has developed a strong partnership with Manchester police which has led to the appointment of their first ever full time modern slavery network coordinator. She also works closely with Manchester airport, where she leads their Travel Safe week, educating staff and public alike to be vigilant for the signs of modern slavery.
On top of this Julia regularly works with schools to raise awareness of the issues, attends harm reduction visits and undertakes one to one work with survivors and support staff.
In a personal letter to Julia, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“It is hard to comprehend that the inhumane crimes of modern slavery are lurking in the shadows of our country. As Prime Minister, I am determined to do everything in my power to stop this vile trade, which sees vulnerable people enduring experiences that are simply horrifying in their inhumanity.
Your invaluable work with Stop the Traffik has transformed the response to these sickening activities in Manchester. By building partnerships with the Police and the airport and supporting volunteers to have the necessary skills to play a role, you are making a difference to the lives of vulnerable individuals in desperate need of our support.”
Julia said:
“Stop the Traffik aims to prevent people trafficking by being networked globally and acting locally. In Greater Manchester our Stop the Traffik community group raises awareness within our communities to spot the signs of people-trafficking and report it. I am honoured to receive this award in recognition of the commitment of all our volunteers and the pioneering partnerships we have working across Greater Manchester to disrupt the crime and build a safer, more resilient community.”