Seventeen celebrities join forces for an impactful anti-slavery campaign by Causeway.
- The campaign named ‘Stand With Survivors’ highlights modern slavery issues.
- Over 50 million people globally are estimated to be trapped in slavery, including 100,000 in the UK.
- Notable figures such as Julie Hesmondhalgh and Danny Beard front the initiative.
- Causeway aims to raise awareness and educate the public on identifying slavery signs.
In a significant effort to tackle the pervasive issue of modern slavery, Sheffield-based charity Causeway has announced a formidable partnership with 17 well-known personalities from the realms of film, television, music, and sport. The campaign, titled ‘Stand With Survivors,’ seeks to draw public attention to the often-overlooked epidemic of modern slavery affecting millions worldwide, including more than 100,000 individuals within the United Kingdom itself. This initiative signifies a strategic move by Causeway to amplify its message through the voices of influential figures, thereby extending its reach and effectiveness.
Julie Hesmondhalgh, a BAFTA-nominated actor, along with esteemed peers such as celebrity chef Andi Oliver and comedian Kerry Godliman, spearheads the list of prominent figures lending their support. Their involvement is pivotal not only to elevate the campaign’s profile but also to provide a relatable and credible voice that helps demystify the complex issue of modern slavery for the general populace.
The UK’s National Referral Mechanism has highlighted that regions like the North West are alarmingly high in referral numbers for modern slavery support, trailing just behind London and the South East. Yorkshire and the North East rank fifth. These statistics underscore the pressing need for awareness campaigns and the critical role of organisations like Causeway in addressing these challenges.
Causeway’s latest campaign is a byproduct of extensive planning and development, including an emphasis on public education surrounding the signs of modern slavery. This approach is intended to empower individuals within communities, equipping them with the knowledge to identify and report such instances. By leveraging celebrity endorsements, the charity aims to foster an environment of vigilance and proactive intervention.
Causeway’s head of communications and engagement, Edwin Buckley, expressed deep gratitude for the celebrity involvement, recognising it as a powerful modality for disseminating critical messages about modern slavery. Buckley emphasised the importance of standing in solidarity with survivors and promoting allyship, support, and societal change. This sentiment was echoed by Julie Hesmondhalgh, who highlighted the campaign’s role in giving a voice to the voiceless and influencing lasting societal transformation.
Ultimately, the ‘Stand With Survivors’ campaign represents a powerful collective endeavour to combat modern slavery by leveraging public figures and raising mass awareness.
