The Home Office has come under criticism over its commitment to tackling modern slavery after it emerged the department was employing temporary workers on low pay to make “crucial” decisions about trafficking cases, reports The Independent. An online job ad for national referral mechanism (NRM) decision-maker, a role responsible for deciding whether individuals referred to the government’s trafficking identification framework are genuine victims, reveals they receive a salary of “up to £9.08 per hour” – 33 pence above the living wage. The role is marked as temporary and appears to require no previous experience. Member of Parliament Frank Field said it was “appalling” that the role was being advertised as such a junior position while MP Paul Blomfield said he would take the issue up with the Home Secretary.

Police, local authorities and other agencies are required to refer people into the NRM if they suspect they are a victim of modern slavery. The decision-makers then assess the information provided and decide whether the individuals are genuine victims. When a decision is negative, the case is dismissed and the person will stop receiving Home Office support.  Modern slavery charities have said that incorrect decisions are “commonplace”.

A Home Office spokesperson stated that the NRM is being reformed, adding that new measures include recruiting a number of temporary staff to help ensure quicker, more effective decision-making. The spokesperson also stated that candidates receive extensive training and are constantly monitored.