A new chapter for The Clewer Initiative
Claire Walford
On Tuesday 21st October, 65 friends and partners of The Clewer Initiative gathered at Mary Sumner House to re-connect, reflect and re-commit to the task of fighting modern slavery in the UK.
The jam-packed day left delegates inspired, full of hope and ideas, and buzzing with new connections and conversations! The day kicked off with new director, Lois Bosatta, sharing some of her story and vision for The Clewer Initiative.
Her vision is that we would “live in a world free from slavery where the church has taken an active role in prevention of exploitation and restoration of survivors.”
She reiterated the incredible role the church can play in tackling modern slavery and emphasised the importance of prevention and collaboration. She talked about The Clewer Initiative’s ongoing commitment to raising awareness, developing solutions to detect where modern slavery may be taking place and equipping the church and faith communities to be trauma-informed, safe spaces that extend hospitality and love.
Lois talked through a public health model for preventing modern slavery in the UK, and how the work of The Clewer Initiative could be described under the three strands of ‘before trafficking’ (preventing trafficking from happening in the first place), early intervention (prevention of further harm) and ‘treatment of harm and the prevention of re-trafficking'.
She mentioned some of the enablers and elements of good practice that will help achieve this strategy including: survivor voice, partnership, safeguarding, research and innovation, policy engagement and excellence and creativity.
She shared her “hopeful determination” and thankfulness to the trustees and network for entrusting her with the role. She also referred to the seriousness and humility with which she has taken on the responsibility of leading The Clewer Initiative forward.
Lois will share more over the coming weeks and months!
