A man from Marple has launched a campaign to raise awareness around modern slavery - and has enlisted the help of 17 celebrities to do so.

After realising the extent of modern slavery in the North West, Edwin Buckley (34) started his Stand With Survivors campaign. The campaign is endorsed by a wide range of supporters, including: BAFTA-nominee Julie Hesmondhalgh; Great British Menu host Andi Oliver; After Life star Kerry Godliman; and former EastEnders actor Maisie Smith.

Modern slavery is defined by the UK Government as "the recruitment, movement, harbouring or receiving of children, women or men through the use of force, coercion, deception, or abuse of power".

An estimated 100,000 people in the UK are trapped in modern slavery and exploitation, with a high proportion of these in the North West. Survivors will often have experienced labour exploitation, sexual exploitation, and criminal exploitation.

Edwin, who lives in Marple Bridge, was inspired to start this campaign following his work with Causeway - a leading modern slavery and crime reduction charity - which brought him into contact with survivors of exploitation.

The aim of his campaign is not just to raise awareness of modern slavery, but also to educate the public about the signs to look out for which indicate somebody may be experiencing it.

Speaking of his campaign, Edwin said: "I had the idea for the Stand With Survivors campaign a few months ago, however I knew I wanted it to be one that could reach as many people as possible. That's when I came up with the idea of asking celebrities to front it for me.

"I am so grateful to all of the celebrities who have thrown their support being the campaign. It is such a powerful way for me to reach more people, raise awareness and advocate against modern slavery.

"I hope the campaign will encourage everybody to 'stand with survivors', and show allyship, care and support for those who have been, or who are currently being, affected by modern slavery."

The seventeen celebrities involved in the campaign are Julie Hesmondhalgh, Andi Oliver, Kerry Godliman, Maisie Smith, Derek Riddell, Cliff Parisi, Danny Beard, Kerry Ellis, Cindy Ngamba, Shelley King, Charlie Hardwick, Jacob Dudman, Simon Calder, Alicya Eyo, Miles Asteri, Theo Mayne and Matt Jameson.

Learn more about Edwin's campaign here.

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