Seized designer trainers redistributed to help survivors of modern slavery

Saturday, 15 November 2025 15:51

By David Murphy

Hundreds of pairs of trainers seized by Greater Manchester Police as part of a money laundering investigation are now supporting survivors of modern slavery and trafficking across the North.

Officers from GMP’s Economic and Cyber Crime Unit donated around 400 pairs of new and nearly-new trainers to charities working with vulnerable people in Manchester, Liverpool, Sheffield and Sunderland.

The items were confiscated in Bury in April 2024 under the Police Property Act, after suspects failed to confirm ownership. Rather than leaving them in storage, police worked to identify organisations that could benefit from the stock.

One of the main recipients was Causeway, a charity supporting survivors of human trafficking. Mary Tear from the charity’s 'LifeSupply' department explained that the trainers would be added to a free ‘online shop’ used by their service users.

“Service users can log in and choose what they need from a list of donations,” she said. “This encourages independence and gives them autonomy over their choices. The trainers will help survivors in Manchester, as well as Liverpool, Sheffield and Sunderland.”

Another charity to benefit is the Medaille Trust, which offers supported accommodation and recovery services for victims of modern slavery.

Ben Ryan, Chief Operating Officer at Medaille Trust, said the gift would help restore dignity and confidence for those rebuilding their lives.

“Choosing your own clothing may seem simple, but for survivors of abuse and coercion, it is a significant step toward reclaiming agency,” he said.

Detective Inspector Sarah Langley, who led the initiative, said it highlighted the force’s commitment to reinvesting criminal proceeds back into communities.

“We already support a number of organisations through the Asset Recovery Incentivisation Scheme,” she said. “This donation was a little different. The trainers were lawfully retained and became GMP property after the suspects failed to establish ownership.

“It’s a practical example of how criminal enforcement and community support can go hand in hand.”

Money seized under the ARIS scheme continues to fund projects and charities across Greater Manchester that help reduce harm, support victims, and strengthen local resilience.