In partnership with Unseen, 11 major construction firms and labour agencies have come together to release a new short film that highlights the reality of labour exploitation on UK construction sites.
The construction sector is one of the industries most affected by modern slavery, with the widespread use of subcontracted labour, high turnover of workers, and complex supply chains all increasing the risk of worker exploitation.
Labour exploitation comprised 35% of all modern slavery cases and 58% of potential victims reported to the Modern Slavery & Exploitation Helpline in 2023.
New film highlights the struggles of labour exploitation victims
To raise awareness and help combat this issue, Unseen, together with partners – Berkeley Group, Laing O’Rourke, Skanska, Morgan Sindall Group, Kier Group, Galliford Try, VGC Group, Danny Sullivan Group, Randstad, Hays and Carmichael – have produced a powerful short film.
It vividly illustrates the everyday struggles faced by those in situations of labour exploitation and highlights the key signs that construction site teams need to watch out for. This includes excessive working hours, lack of contracts and excessive wage deductions.

A collective responsibility to end exploitation
This collaborative initiative underscores the responsibility that businesses in the construction sector have to educate their entire supply chain and combat modern slavery. By raising awareness and promoting vigilance, we can significantly increase the chances of spotting and reporting exploitation at the site level.
Andrew Wallis OBE, CEO of Unseen, said: “I am heartened to see major construction firms stepping up to provide resources and tools to combat modern slavery. This not only raises awareness but also empowers smaller companies at the site level where the impact is most profound.
“Together, we are building a foundation for ethical practices that will ensure the safety and dignity of every worker in the industry.”
The film will be used across the built environment sector as part of training programmes and site inductions, helping to enhance awareness and increase the chances of exploitative practices being identified and reported.

Join the movement to combat exploitation in construction
Are you a construction worker or manager? Help us spread the word and take action by sharing this film with your teams, networks, and suppliers. Raising awareness is a crucial step in ensuring that more people can identify and report exploitation.
Our expert business team provide bespoke support, resources, and training for companies looking to strengthen their response to modern slavery and worker exploitation. By working together, we can help you ensure the highest ethical standards are upheld across your workforce and supply chain.
To learn more about how we can support your business, please contact us at [email protected]