A “timely and vital” campaign to stamp out modern slavery is being launched by St Albans district council.

Herts Advertiser: Amanda Foley.Amanda Foley. (Image: Archant)

Residents across the city are being urged to join in by posting a selfie on social media on Wednesday, October 18, which is Anti-Slavery Day. The selfie should feature them holding up the slogan ‘I stand against modern slavery’ and use the hashtag #EndHumanTrafficking.

Last year at St Albans Crown Court, a local man was jailed for four years for using a vulnerable labourer as a slave.

Among those taking part in the campaign is cllr Anthony Rowlands, the council’s mental health champion, who is involved in highlighting the crime because slavery victims often have learning difficulties, addictions and other mental health problems. He will be joined by the council’s other mental health champions as well as chief executive Amanda Foley and staff from its Community Protection Team.