The General Synod has given unanimous backing to a call for the Government to ensure the protection of child survivors of trafficking after hearing of fears that the Nationality and Borders Bill could leave more children unprotected and at risk.<\/p>\n
Members voted 331 in favour, with no votes against and no abstentions, both to acknowledge the \u2018leading role\u2019 that the Government has played internationally in challenging slavery – while calling on the Government to ensure the proper protection of minors who are trafficked and enslaved.<\/p>\n
The Synod also voted to encourage all dioceses, deaneries and parishes in the Church of England to raise awareness of modern slavery. Members further called on people to pray for the victims and survivors of slavery and trafficking and all those organisations who work to help and support them.<\/p>\n
General Synod member Alistair Bianchi, introducing the debate at the Synod, said progress that had been made in tackling modern slavery and protecting children who have been trafficked risked being endangered as a result of measures in the Nationality and Borders Bill.<\/p>\n
There are \u2018considerable concerns\u2019 that the lack of attention paid specifically to protecting children in the Bill \u2013 currently before Parliament – could have a negative impact both on child survivors of trafficking and children subject to the immigration system who are at risk of exploitation, he told the Synod<\/p>\n
Read it all<\/a>.<\/p>\n Nationality and Borders Bill risks endangering progress made on protection of child survivors of trafficking and modern slavery, Synod hears https:\/\/t.co\/smCyfLna9Z<\/a><\/p>\n — General Synod (@synod) February 9, 2022<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n \n