A team from Manchester-based charity MASH who received a prestigious commendation from Greater Manchester Police say they dedicate the award to the incredibly brave and courageous woman at the centre of a traumatic modern slavery case.
Workers at MASH received the award from GMP’s Serious Crime Division for their expert and determined work to protect a victim of modern slavery and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Detective Chief Superintendent, Jonathon Chadwick, awarded the commendation to MASH; “For their professionalism, dedication and determination in protecting a vulnerable victim of modern slavery and bringing all the offenders to justice.”
It recognises the charity’s ongoing work supporting a woman who was the victim of sustained harm and violence at the hands of criminals.
The team at MASH included workers Caroline Edge, Caroline Montgomery, Beca Lupu and Tina Threadgold. They recognised warning signs of modern slavery and, thanks to their consistent presence on Manchester’s streets at night-time in the MASH outreach van, were able to share crucial information with GMP which led to the victim being located and taken to safety after a brutal attack.
Through MASH’s joined-up working and the trust they gradually built with the victim, they were able to support the woman to a safe location. The team has remained in contact with the woman, who has gone on to build a new life for herself elsewhere and is happy and thriving.
MASH remained involved in the complex case for a number of years, including making a statement which was pivotal in the sentencing of the perpetrators.
Tina Threadgold, Head of Services at MASH said; “We were extremely pleased to receive this recognition and would like to dedicate it to the woman at the centre of this story.
“Though we were able to recognise the warning signs of modern slavery and act as a team to reach this positive outcome, the unbelievable courage and bravery of this woman can never be overstated.
“This was a particularly harrowing case and will always remain in our memories.
“It’s just one example of how crucial the MASH Outreach Van service is as it can quite literally be lifesaving.
“The diligence of the MASH team to recognise indicators of modern slavery in this case and their prompt action on the night resulted in the police locating the offenders quickly and bringing the victim to safety. MASH appreciates the recognition from Greater Manchester Police and we feel that it is testament to the robust work we do with our partners to keep women safe.”
The MASH Outreach Van is just one of a number of services the charity provides for women involved in sex work. Everything is aimed at improving women’s health safety and wellbeing.
The MASH outreach van is taken to the areas where women are working. They can step on for safety, care, support and practical items. The outreach van is so often a first responder when women have been attacked or are experiencing a mental health crisis.
