HOW beautiful the Lake District was, this spring, the fields full of lambs and hedges full of daffodils. Imagine though, if you were not able to enjoy springtime, because you were trapped into a life with no way out, no escape from the exploitation put upon you by those who want to dehumanise you, so that they can profit from you. Sounds serious doesn’t it and something we may not want to consider in our comfortable and beautiful surroundings.

Human trafficking is the fastest growing global crime - affecting every continent and economic structure in the world. It may be happening in an industry that we interact with on a daily basis - maybe just around the corner. Even here.

The average age of children who go missing and end up in sex trafficking is just 15 years. A21 is an organisation that seeks to raise awareness of the millions of men, women and children trapped in slavery across the world. They partner with local government and schools to turn awareness into action. We all need to notice what is going on around us, as well as noticing the lambs and the daffodils.

Proverbs 31 says: "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves." A21's strapline is 'If you suspect it - report it.'

As followers of the One who cared for the needy and destitute, we Christians are to care. To care deeply enough to speak up. There is information on the Cumbria Police website to help spot signs of human trafficking. If you suspect it, report it. Please.

Julie Ross, team leader, A21 International Organisation against Trafficking