15 November 2016
PhD student Amy Benstead recently attended The University of Manchester Alliance Business School Business and Human Rights Catalyst workshop on ‘The Modern Slavery Act: an interdisciplinary research debate’ at Manchester Museum.

Prior to the debate, presentations were given by Vicky Charles (Greater Manchester Police Organised Crime Coordination Unit), Professor Ken McPhail (Associate Dean Social Responsibility, Alliance Manchester Business School), Dr Rose Broad (Lecturer in Criminology, School of Law, University of Manchester) and Patricia Carrier (Business and Human Rights Resource Centre).

Modern slavery is a complex and hidden crime, and the range of speakers at the event on 10th November therefore provided different perspectives which helped to identify the challenges and research gaps. The factors driving companies’ responses to modern slavery were discussed as well as understanding modern slavery crimes within the UK, risk assessment, due diligence, remediation, Modern Slavery Act company statements and the role of criminal law. Collaborative research was encouraged by bringing together expertise to further understand both theoretical and practical implications.

Amy’s PhD research focuses on Modern Slavery within the context of Socially Sustainable Supply Chain Management.