2008
In Autumn, the original RAT Network was founded at the instigation of a group of local practitioners who were each concerned about the issue of human trafficking and how it might be affecting the people they were working with. Recognising that traffickers are able to operate via complex and sophisticated organised crime groups, it was agreed that the Network be open to all agencies who may encounter trafficked persons through the work they do, or whose work involves developing policies or procedures that may impact trafficked persons.In December, founder members organised an awareness raising day attended by 107 people from all over the country, including professionals from statutory and non-statutory agencies, students, and faith leaders.