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      Exploitation of people living in poverty including people-trafficking

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can explain what people trafficking is, how victims are exploited, and responses to it.

      Key learning points

      1. People trafficking is an illegal trade that exploits and abuses vulnerable individuals for profit.
      2. Victims, often tricked or threatened, are trapped in harsh conditions without rights or freedom.
      3. People trafficking is an illegal trade that exploits and abuses vulnerable individuals for profit.
      4. Christian teachings stress human dignity, justice, and helping the vulnerable.
      5. Groups like the Salvation Army provide safe houses, legal aid, and campaign for stronger laws.

      Keywords

      • Exploitation - the unfair treatment or use of individuals or groups, often for profit, by taking advantage of their vulnerability, limited resources, or lack of power

      • People trafficking - illegal transport of people from one country or area to another, often resulting in forced labour or sexual exploitation

      • Salvation Army - a Protestant Christian denomination and charity

      Common misconception

      People choose to be trafficked or can easily escape if they want to.

      Victims of trafficking are often deceived or forced, making escape difficult. Threats, debt, and lack of support trap them, requiring awareness and action to help.

      Teacher tip

      This is an extremely sensitive topic and may be very personal to some students.

      Content guidance

      Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

      Supervision

      Adult supervision recommended

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      What is a key issue with high interest payday loans?

      Correct answer: They trap people in cycles of debt.
      They provide financial security.
      They help people avoid poverty.

      Q2.
      How does the Fairtrade movement help workers?

      by increasing company profits
      by lowering the cost of labour
      Correct answer: by ensuring fair wages and good conditions

      Q3.
      What service does the Salvation Army provide to those in financial difficulty?

      Correct answer: debt advice and financial support
      high interest loans
      encouragement to take more loans

      Q4.
      Why do some Christians oppose sweatshops?

      They think businesses should maximise profit.
      Correct answer: They believe workers deserve fair pay.
      They believe only charity can help the poor.

      Q5.
      What does Christian Aid do to support people in poverty?

      encourages payday loans
      avoids involvement in financial issues
      Correct answer: provides microloans and debt relief

      Q6.
      The Bible warns against , which is the practice of charging excessive interest on loans.

      Correct Answer: usury, Usury

      5 Questions

      Q1.
      People trafficking is an trade that exploits vulnerable individuals for profit.

      Correct Answer: illegal, Illegal

      Q2.
      The Army has a government contract to provide services for survivors of people trafficking, offering safe housing, counselling, and legal assistance.

      Correct Answer: Salvation, salvation

      Q3.
      How does people trafficking affect victims?

      They willingly participate in the trade for profit.
      Correct answer: They are trapped in harsh conditions without rights or freedom.
      They are paid well for their labour.

      Q4.
      Which law helps to combat people trafficking in the UK?

      Correct answer: the Modern Slavery Act 2015
      the Human Rights Act 1998
      the Equalities Act 2010

      Q5.
      What is a common method used to coerce victims into trafficking?

      promises of free education and jobs
      Correct answer: threats, violence, and debt bondage
      voluntary participation due to poverty

      To help you plan your 11 religious education lesson on: Exploitation of people living in poverty including people-trafficking, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...