Adam's experience of trafficking
I was forced to leave Eritrea at the age of three because my family faced religious persecution and experienced physical violence as a consequence.
I travelled with my mother through a number of African countries, sleeping rough. She left me alone for much of the time when she was looking for work.
In Libya, I was separated from my mother and trafficked by an agent across Europe, through Italy, France and into the UK in a refrigerated lorry. I was forced to make many dangerous journeys, including travelling over the sea at night in an overcrowded boat. I saw many people drown. I suffered serious violence on his journey, and was tortured by adults in the camps I had to stay in. I was also forced to work in a number of countries along my journey, making bricks, washing up in restaurants and begging.
At first I was very scared of professionals, especially the police. Most of the police in the countries I had travelled through were corrupt and violent.
My Barnardo’s Independent Child Trafficking Advocate gave me a lot of support. They helped me to understand my rights and to understand children’s services. They made sure that my voice was heard in meetings about my care.
Today, I still suffer nightmares and flashbacks, and am very scared of water as a result of my boat journey to Europe. But I’m doing well in school and love to learn. I hope one day to become a lawyer to help others like myself.
If you are concerned a child may be the victim of trafficking or exploitation, please contact The Modern Slavery helpline on 08000 121 700.