Report Abuse
Close Tab

Overview

​​​​The Human Trafficking Service provides support to individuals who have experienced human trafficking or exploitation. The service offers practical assistance, safe accommodation where needed, and guidance to help people regain stability and access the support they require.

Human trafficking can take different forms and may involve coercion, deception, control, or threats. In many situations, victims may not immediately recognise that they are being exploited.

What the service addresses

The service supports individuals who are trafficked or exploited for purposes such as:

  • Labour exploitation
  • Sexual exploitation
  • Domestic servitude
  • Exploitation for the purpose of involvement in criminal activities
  • Child trafficking
  • Underage or forced marriage

Who the service supports

Support is provided to:

  • Individuals affected by trafficking or exploitation, including adults and children
  • People who may be at increased risk of exploitation
  • Individuals who have sought refuge in Malta
  • Survivors who may still be impacted by past experiences and require ongoing support

Some cases involve individuals being misled about the work they will be doing or the conditions they will live in and later becoming trapped or controlled.

How we support individuals

Depending on a person’s needs and situation, the service may provide:

  • Safe shelter and accommodation support
  • Financial assistance
  • Referrals to appropriate support services
  • Guidance and support throughout legal procedures
  • Ongoing assistance to help individuals rebuild stability and independence

Prevention, outreach, and training

The service also focuses on prevention and strengthening response efforts through:

  • Awareness campaigns, including content shared on social media
  • Outreach with groups who may be more vulnerable to exploitation
  • Training for frontliners to help them identify trafficking and respond appropriately
  • Project New Beginnings, which focuses on strengthening victim support, raising awareness, improving service delivery, and expanding outreach

Recognising possible signs of trafficking

These indicators may suggest that someone is being exploited or trafficked:

  • Restricted freedom of movement or control
  • No access to ID documentation
  • Fearful behaviour, such as avoiding eye contact
  • Visible injuries or signs of abuse
  • Excessive working hours and exhaustion
  • Unclear job role and conditions
  • Limited possessions and personal belongings
  • Poor living conditions or overcrowding
  • Threats, blackmail, or deportation fears
  • Trafficker or gang symbols marked on the victim (e.g. tattoos).
  • Employer controls housing and transport

A person may experience one or several of these signs. Not all indicators confirm trafficking, but concerns should always be taken seriously.

Getting help or reporting concerns

If you need support or suspect that someone may be experiencing trafficking or exploitation, you can:

  • Call Supportline 179
  • Contact Aġenzija Appoġġ on 2295 9000
  • Send a private message through the service’s Facebook page: Click Here
  • In cases of emergencies, contact the police/112

If you are reporting concerns on someone else’s behalf, it is important to state whether it is safe to contact the person directly or whether the situation should be referred to the police.

FSWS
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.