Abolition Group movement continues to grow

The Hope for Justice Abolition Group movement continues to grow, with a number of new groups launching in towns and cities across the UK and around the world.

Abolition Groups are about making your passion for ending slavery a part of your everyday life – however that might look. Volunteers – sometimes just a few, sometimes 30 or more – meet together at least once a month to educate themselves about the issues, to act locally and campaign in their communities, and to fundraise for Hope for Justice’s life-changing work.

More groups are springing up across the UK, with support from Hope for Justice staff. New groups in Derby, Blackpool and Tetbury in the Cotswolds are among the latest to join the network of more than 40 Abolition Groups. Plans are also under way for a new group in Leicester.

Andrew Wrath, who oversees the running of the groups, said: “This is one way that people can do something practically in their local communities to make a difference. It is an opportunity to have a positive impact to combat modern slavery.”

The Derby Abolition Group was formed in September 2018 and is working locally with other organisations including the Red Cross, Salvation Army, Just-Ice and Rebuild. The group holds monthly meetings to discuss practical ways of impacting their local area, take part in training, learn how to spot the signs of slavery, and encourage one another.

What do Abolition Groups do?

– Abolition Groups help to raise awareness about trafficking in their communities to help others spot the signs of slavery
– They also raise money to help provide long-term care for men, women and children who have suffered at the hands of traffickers
– Groups also help practically by writing letters to MPs, signing petitions, speaking with councillors and other leaders in their areas, and working on the ground to make change happen

To find your nearest group, or to start your own, click here or email andrew.wrath@hopeforjustice.org

Preston Abolition Group won the 'Commitment to the Cause' Award at the 2019 Abolition Afternoon Awards

Preston Abolition Group won the ‘Commitment to the Cause’ Award at the 2019 Abolition Afternoon Awards