The VOICE Panel is a survivor-led initiative operating within the West Midlands Anti-Slavery Network.
It brings together individuals with lived experience of modern slavery, providing a platform for their expertise to directly inform, shape, and strengthen anti-slavery strategies across multiple sectors – including law enforcement, social care, health services, policy, and business.
As a model of meaningful survivor engagement, the VOICE Panel drives innovation and accountability within the region’s anti-slaveryresponse.
Through consultation, collaboration, and advocacy, the VOICE Panelensures that survivor perspectives are not only heard but actively integratedinto decision-making, programme design, and service delivery. Thisapproach helps create more responsive, ethical, and effective systems thatreflect the realities and needs of those most impacted by exploitation.
POLICY REVIEW & DEVELOPMENT
We conduct comprehensive reviews of existing policies and offer targeted recommendations to ensure they aresurvivor-centred, trauma-informed, and rooted in equity.
Our approach incorporates the latest research, stakeholder feedback, and frontline insights to help organizationsalign their protocols with industry best practices and legal standards. By fostering policies that prioritize dignity,safety, and empowerment, we support institutions in creating environments where survivors are heard, supported,and respected.
This service not only strengthens internal accountability but also enhances public trust and long-term impact.
TRAINING & CAPACITY BUILDING
We develop and deliver customized training programs tailored to the unique needs of businesses and organizations.
Our sessions equip staff, leadership, and frontline teams with practical tools and frameworks to engage with survivors respectfully, ethically, and effectively.
Grounded in trauma-informed principles and survivor-centred approaches, our trainings foster safer, more inclusive environments while enhancing organizational competence and confidence.
Through workshops, coaching, and ongoing support, we build lasting capacity that not only meets compliance standards but also drives cultural transformation and social responsibility.
ADVOCACY FOR SURVIVOR CENTRIC LANGUAGE
We support businesses and stakeholders in adopting language that is respectful, inclusive, and empowering forsurvivors. Through tailored guidance, we help organizations move away from stigmatizing or clinical terminology toward language that fosters dignity, agency, and trust.
Our approach ensures communication – whether in policy documents, marketing materials, or frontline interactions -minimises the risk of re-traumatization and aligns with trauma-informed best practices.
By shifting how we speak, we influence how survivors are seen, heard, and supported, creating a more compassionate and accountable culture across sectors.
LIVED EXPERIENCE SPEAKERS
Our panel of lived experience speakers offers powerful, first-hand insights that educate, challenge, and inspire meaningful change.
Each speaker is trained to share their story in a way that promotes understanding, reduces stigma, and foster sempathy. Whether contributing to conferences, staff trainings, awareness campaigns, or panel discussions, these voices bring a human dimension to policy and practice conversations.
By centering lived expertise, we help organisations move beyond theoretical knowledge toward authentic, survivor-informed engagement that drives lasting impact.
Partnering with VOICE is a powerful step toward ensuring that your practices are compassionate, informed, and fully aligned with the needs of modern slavery survivors. By working together, you can contribute directly to the fight against exploitation and help create lasting change.
Whether you’re looking to refine your approach, train your team, or develop policies that reflect a commitment to justice, a consultation with VOICE will equip you with the tools you need to make a meaningful impact.
Book a Consultation or Get in Touch
Book a consultation or get in touch today to be part of the solution and help eradicate modern slavery.
Liz Lowther
VOICE Engagement Manager
vem@westmidlandsantislavery.org
+44 (0)7701380149