Four LGBTQ+ celebrities – actor and broadcaster Stephen Fry, TV presenter Dr Ranj Singh, actor Charlie Condou and Married at First Sight UK’s Matt Jameson – have teamed up for a new male modern slavery campaign, which features a film launched by the charity Causeway.
Modern slavery charity Causeway has gained the support of 19 male celebrities for their new campaign, called Hidden Men of Modern Slavery, which shines a light on men’s increased risk of becoming victims of modern slavery.
Actor and broadcaster Stephen Fry leads the famous men in a special film for the campaign, alongside TV presenter Dr Ranj Singh, and actor and LGBTQ+ rights activist Charlie Condou. Also taking part is Married at First Sight UK’s Matt Jameson, who was part of the first same-sex marriage to take place on the reality series in 2021.
Amy Bond, Causeway’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “Anybody can find themselves a victim of modern slavery, and people are often surprised when they learn men can be more at risk in many instances. There are unique challenges when it comes to protecting and supporting male modern slavery victims. We are so grateful to have the support of these 19 wonderful men, who are using influence and platforms to bring awareness to the truly shocking statistics.”
It is estimated that 50 million people around the world are currently trapped in modern slavery and exploitation, with over 100,000 over those in the UK.
According to Causeway, the number of male modern slavery victims in the UK has been increasing year on year. Currently three quarters of modern slavery victims identified in the UK are men. The majority of victims of labour exploitation, criminal exploitation and organ harvesting are men.
Stephen Fry, actor and broadcaster, said: “The statistics around modern slavery in the UK are truly startling, and modern slavery does not discriminate. Anybody can be at risk of trafficking and exploitation, regardless of age, gender or nationality. I am proud to be involved in Causeway’s Hidden Men of Modern Slavery campaign to raise away of this.”
Charlie Condou, former Coronation Street star, said: “It is an honour to be involved in Causeway’s Hidden Men of Modern Slavery campaign. All too often we just hear statistics and stereotypes when it comes to modern slavery. However, this campaign shines a light on the heartbreaking reality of those who find themselves trapped in trafficking and exploitation. It can happen to anyone.”
Matt Jameson, Married at First Sight UK star, said: “It is so important that in what can be a divided world, we can unite to support and elevate voices of some of the most vulnerable people in society. It’s been great working with Causeway and joining up with Stephen Fry, Dr Ranj, and all of the other fantastic men involved, to shine a light on men’s increased risk of modern slavery.”
For more info on the charity, CLICK HERE
