The contribution and motivation of faith-based volunteers in a UK antislavery partnership: a case study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Modern slavery and human trafficking are crimes impacting local communities with the most vulnerable being exploited. As such, there is a need for communities to partner towards slavery-free communities. Faith communities are encouraged to partner in these responses. The article presents a small-scale case study of one UK antislavery partnership (AP) and interviews participants of Christian faith, who volunteer within it. The study asks, to what extent does the AP benefit from volunteers of faith? And what motivates the volunteers’ involvement within that AP? The findings indicate that APs can benefit from the skills and experience of faith volunteers. The study highlights that the volunteers’ Christian faith and previous experiences of working with vulnerable individuals motivate their present praxis. Through reflection relating to lines of connection between life and faith, the common good, public faith and spirituality, the study explores how faith communities and APs can develop mutually beneficial partnerships.