"Co-op to offer jobs to survivors of modern slavery", 3 March 2017

Working with the charity City Hearts, the British consumer co-operative Co-op has launched its "Bright Future" initiative, offering support, including a work placement and potential permanent employment in its food business to 30 victims of modern slavery in 2017.

Following the placement, the survivors will be given a non-competitive interview and, if it is successful and a position is vacant, be offered a job. The first beneficiary of the scheme is already working in a Co-op store in the North West.

Kevin Hyland, the Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner, said: " This unique initiative marks the first time victims have been directly offered work placements and employment opportunities. "In doing so, the Co-op has empowered victims of modern slavery and human trafficking to live a bright future and I am pleased to see that this initiative opens the door for that to become a reality."