The UK Government launched a pilot project to provide support to victims of trafficking for sexual exploitation.

The six-month pilot project, launched on 10 March, will provide women with short-term shelter, medical and psychological help, translators and advice from the relevant authorities.

"Anti-Slavery International welcomes this move", Anti-Slavery International Director Mary Cunneen said. "However, it is crucial that support is given to all those identified as a victims of trafficking, irrespective of the work they were forced to do or whether they co-operate with the authorities or act as witnesses in trials. Support must be centred on protecting the safety and rights of the person trafficked."

Under the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act, a stop-gap measure makes trafficking for prostitution illegal with a penalty of up to 14 years in prison for the trafficker. In January, The Sexual Offences Bill was introduced into the House of Lords which will make trafficking for sexual exploitation an offence; it is due to come into force later this year.

At least 700,000 people are trafficked worldwide each year. Through deception, coercion and the threat or use of violence they are forced into slavery as domestic servants, into restaurant work, agriculture, manufacture and sexual exploitation. Under UK law, there is still no penalty for trafficking beyond sexual exploitation, nor are there protection measures.