MODERN slavery takes many forms, from the sexual abuse of young women trafficked here from abroad to the exploitation of vulnerable people for labour. Recent figures revealed that last year, seven people right here in North Yorkshire contacted the authorities for help to escape a life of slavery.

Most of us remain unaware of the dreadful things going on. So it is good to see organisations such as Shiva, the hotel chain which includes York’s Monkbar Hotel, taking action. All its staff are to be trained in how to spot potential victims. Good for Shiva. The more we are all alert to the signs, the sooner this appalling abuse will be stamped out.