LOCALS are being urged to spot signs of human trafficking in South Ayrshire.

People on Ayr’s Main Street were targeted on Monday, September 18, with free manicures being offered, as part of a Scottish government campaign which aims to highlight that human trafficking is closer to home than people think.

Ayr was recently revealed as one of the 27 locations in Scotland where victims of human trafficking have been identified in Scotland in the past five years.

Cabinet Secretary for Justice, Michael Matheson, said: “Human trafficking is a complex crime which involves adults and children being traded and exploited for personal benefit. It is an abuse of human rights which causes victims lasting physical and psychological damage.

“We want to make people aware of the different industries in which human trafficking can happen so we can start to effectively tackle this crime and stop this abhorrent abuse of human rights.

“I would encourage anyone who has concerns to report them to help bring human trafficking to an end in Scotland.”

South Ayrshire Council Leader, Councillor Douglas Campbell, added: “Human trafficking is not something that any of us should tolerate in a modern society and we all have a part to play in eradicating it from our communities. That’s why I very much welcome this national campaign and encourage people and communities across South Ayrshire to lend their support and make a difference.

“It’s something that has the potential to affect all areas and all people – men, women, adult, child – and, if by raising awareness, we can save one person from being exploited and used in this way, then that will be a success.

“Please don’t assume it doesn’t happen here, please don’t assume it happens to other people – please visit the Modern Slavery Helpline website and find out how you can play your part.”