Source: Sunderland_Echo
More than 100 victims of modern slavery in Sunderland set to receive support from National Lottery Funding
A charity supporting victims of modern slavery in Sunderland have been given a boost thanks to a £239,000 grant.
International Community Organisation of Sunderland (ICOS) has received the funding from the National Lottery Community Fund to help its three-year Back in Control project.
The charity, which was created in 2009, exists to benefit the local community and ethnic minorities in Sunderland.
Its Back in Control project aims to support victims of modern slavery and workplace exploitation who are from ethnic minority groups in the city and surrounding area.
The National Lottery Community Fund distributes money raised by National Lottery customers for good causes.
Michal Chantkowski, ICOS development and service manager, said: “We are delighted that the National Lottery Community Fund has recognised the vital work we do.
“Thanks to National Lottery customers, we will be able to carry out our plans to broaden the range of opportunities available to victims of exploitation.
“From our experience of working with migrant people in Sunderland and the wider area, we know they often have limited access to support when mistreated at work, yet by virtue of being new arrivals, they are more likely to be exploited.
“Moreover, it will support organisations such as employers to improve their employment practices.
“We hope to transform Sunderland into an area where employment is fair for every employee.”
The charity said the project will help victims to learn new skills, that will improve their employment prospects, as well as boosting their confidence, self-belief and mental health well-being.
Alessia Di Meo, the learning and sharing officer said: “Having worked for many years with vulnerable adults going through tough times, at ICOS we recognise the Back in Control project is steering the victim in the right direction.