29 August 2024

Hestia is pleased to share that we have been shortlisted for an award as part of the Human Trafficking Foundation’s annual Anti-Slavery Day awards. Every October, the awards are held to raise awareness around modern slavery and to recognise the work of organisations helping to tackle human trafficking and supporting survivors. Media outlets and journalists are also recognised as part of the awards for shining a light on the issue of modern slavery.

Hestia has been shortlisted for the Empowering Survivor Voices award – a category acknowledging organisations that put survivor’s voices at the forefront of what they do. This includes both opportunities for empowerment and also ensuring that survivor contributions and feedback consistently inform their work.

Hestia has several initiatives which provide safety, hope and purpose for survivors of modern slavery – most notably our annual Art is Freedom Exhibition and our Empowered Voices Forum

Art is Freedom is Hestia’s annual exhibition featuring artwork created by survivors in workshops which focus on the benefits of art for recovery, expression and empowerment. The public exhibition not only showcases this artwork but is also an opportunity to raise awareness about modern slavery and the personal stories of those affected. In recent years the exhibition has been displayed at Trafalgar Square, on the Piccadilly Lights, Portcullis House and across various stations in London including Waterloo and London Bridge.

Hestia’s Empowered Voices Forum is a survivor led group with the aim of putting the voices of those with lived experience at the forefront of strategic planning and implementation. Members have contributed to informing both the work that Hestia does and the work of other stakeholders in the modern slavery field. In the past year, survivors have engaged with Parliament, the police and the Home Office. This inclusive approach ensures a comprehensive strategy that addresses the complexities of modern slavery across various sectors and societies. It is also an opportunity for confidence building as well as a chance to make friends and develop skills - specifically public speaking. 

Alison Logier Director of Modern Slavery Response at Hestia said:

“We are honoured and thrilled to have been shortlisted for the Empowerment award. Ensuring survivors have a platform to express themselves, have their voices heard and shape policy is at the heart of everything we do at Hestia. We have seen so many people find their voice via our programmes such as Art is Freedom and Empowered Voices, and I would like to thank my dedicated colleagues and survivors who contribute to their success”

Read more about our modern slavery support