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Guidance and Awareness Raising Event in Shoreham-by-Sea

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The Santa Marta Group was pleased to visit St Peter’s Church in Shoreham-by-Sea on Saturday 29th June, with the support of Caritas, to reconnect on this parish’s work against modern slavery and human trafficking. We have had a relationship with this diocese for many years, so it was encouraging to see that they continue to embody local leadership through the CSAN Modern Slavery Awareness Ambassador programme. Through this, local leaders are trained and equipped to present on modern slavery and human trafficking wherever the opportunity arises, and to engage their communities in the fight against the crime.

The event was a valuable opportunity for the Santa Marta Group to share its guidance and awareness programme resources with the group, and to discuss opportunities for future collaboration and support.

With approximately 35 people in attendance, we had fruitful and thoughtful discussions. A good range of background knowledge made for interesting conversations – those with little prior understanding were guided by those who have been engaging for some time, as well as some individuals with perspectives from professional experience in the sector. We were grateful, too, to have the attendance and support of many clergy members from the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton, and women religious, all of whom enriched the event with their insights.

This felt in all like a token example of how collaborative efforts are the way forward in our fight against modern slavery. The problem, as we all know, is far too great for any one individual to face alone. But through partnership and collaboration, we can hope to make a difference. So, the coming together of people from different backgrounds, all willing to give up their time on a sunny Saturday in support of human rights and human dignity, was moving.

Many thanks to CSAN and the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton for having us. We very much look forward to continuing our work together in the future.