In The Press

Zofia Duszynska has commented on the harsh implementation of the ‘hostile environment’ policy which has seen 27 police forces report those who come forward as victims of trafficking and modern slavery, and victims of domestic and physical abuse to immigration authorities. Many warn that this puts vulnerable people in a position which would prevent them from seeking help for fear of being arrested and removed from the UK. Both the National Police Chief’s Council and the Home Office state that these individuals should be treated as “victims first and foremost” in spite of this practice. As an immigration solicitor and Director at Duncan Lewis, Zofia regularly acts for victims of trafficking and slavery held under immigration powers, many of whom have suffered significant abuse. She states: “They were encountered by police, but rather than being treated as victims of crime, were arrested and detained in immigration removal centres. In many cases, prosecution of the victims of trafficking has been pursued, rather than the investigation and prosecution of those at the top who rented the properties and benefited from the exploitation. Our clients are fearful of approaching the police for help as they have been told by their traffickers they will face prosecution and deportation – as well as punishment by the traffickers. Sadly, we see many cases where this has occurred.”