The National Referral Mechanism (NRM) is the process for identifying victims of human trafficking or modern slavery and ensuring they receive the appropriate support.
A potential victim of trafficking is referred to the NRM team who then make a decision whether a person has been trafficked. It is important that lawyers representing a child who has been or might have been trafficked use this process to ensure they are not wrongly prosecuted for criminal behaviour arising from the child having been trafficking, subject to slavery or exploitation.
A referral to the NRM can also help the victim access support, such as accommodation, protection and independent emotional and practical help.
In England and Wales, only designated first responders can refer cases to the NRM. Criminal lawyers cannot make a referral to the NRM themselves and must notify one of the designated first responders.
Following referral to the NRM, the first stage is that the ‘Single Competent Authority’ will make a Reasonable Grounds decision on whether the individual is a victim of human trafficking or modern slavery. There will then be an investigation process, and a final Conclusive Grounds decision will be made.
Read our YJLC Guide to Child Criminal Exploitation for more information and advice.