Impact article: how do we reduce domestic servitude risk in the developed world?

Purpose This paper aims to detail the policy impact arising from a series of interlocking studies designed to reduce the risk of domestic servitude, a severe form of modern slavery, within care work conducted in private households. Design/methodology/approach Mixed methods were used including feminist participatory action research; comparative international case studies; prevalence estimation based upon respondent-driven sampling and network scale-up methods; and facilitated group problem solving techniques. Findings While this impact pathway demonstrates that it is possible to amplify the voices of marginalised communities within public policy debates, such an approach also raises questions about the ethical implications of impact work, including how to ensure that the voices of other affected communities are acknowledged. Practical implications This impact work includes the publication of modern slavery risk assessment and due diligence guidance, and a process for their local development, for commissioners and procurers of adult social care. Social implications Domestic servitude is a hidden phenomenon. Through engagement with those who deliver live-in care provision, this impact study aimed both to shed light on the risks that they face and increase their agency through direct training in research methods and community-based advocacy. Originality/value This impact paper summarises a multi-faceted research approach to a complex and urgent social problem. It highlights the role public authorities, as state procurers and commissioners of adult social care, can play in the reduction of modern slavery risk in domestic settings and extends the understanding of the role of worker voice in identifying and amplifying the views of those engaged in care work in private household settings.