Copyright metro
Bear’s situation is sadly all too common (Picture: ITV) He’s been missing from Emmerdale for 100 days and now viewers are set to get a deep insight into the harrowing world that Bear Wolf (Joshua Richards) has found himself immersed him. Modern slavery is a common blight on society and is becoming more and more prevalent. One of the most common types of it is forced labour, where vulnerable victims are lured into situations with kindness and false promises, manipulated and groomed and then made to work for no pay, with no escape. This is what happens with Bear, who left the village under a cloud, feeling depressed and useless as a man. Taken in by Ray (Joe Absolom), he was given board, food and somewhere to rest and was treated sympathetically – Bear thought he had found a true friend but a special episode showing us the 100 days of Bear’s life recently will reveal the ugly and heartbreaking truth. Alone, sad, injured and controlled, Bear is trapped along with others, and viewers will get an insight into how this has happened to him. Meanwhile, Paddy Kirk (Dominic Brunt) is desperate for news of his father, little knowing how close he actually is – and even fearing that he may be dead. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video Up Next Previous Page Next Page His former life feels lost to Bear as Ray, led by crime boss Celia Daniels (Jaye Griffiths), turns the screw, abuses him and continues to groom him. The crime in the UK can take place almost anywhere, from farms and nail bars to factories and warehouses. The soap has been working with The Salvation Army to aid with the research and development of the story all along the way. Kathy Betteridge, Director of Anti Trafficking and Modern Slavery for The Salvation Army said: ‘Forced labour is one of the most hidden, but widespread forms of modern slavery in the UK today. ‘We’re thankful to Emmerdale for using this storyline to expose the brutal truth – people are being exploited in plain sight, from farms and factories to cafés, car washes, homes and hotels. Bear found himself consumed by depression and loneliness (Picture: ITV) Paddy is desperate for news on his missing dad (Picture: ITV) ‘Victims are often isolated, threatened, and made to feel they have no way out. But there is a way out with the right, compassionate support, recovery is possible. ‘Storylines like this, delivered with attention to detail and authenticity, help the public recognise what modern slavery really looks like and how vital it is to act when something doesn’t feel right.’ Actor Joshua Richards recently told me how privileged he is to take on such a meaty and hard-hitting storyline, adding that it’s the kind of thing every actor wants. On the announcement of the storyline, he explained: Joshua Richards, who plays Bear, also elaborates on his experience filming this special episode: ‘It may surprise many people, but slavery is alive and well, indeed prospering in the modern world. ‘Not only in obscure countries and cultures that we know little about, and not just the exploitation of migrants by criminal gangs of which some of us are aware. It is happening under our very own noses. ‘The disadvantaged, dispossessed, those with mental health issues or disabilities, the old, lonely and vulnerable people that our society neglect are the perfect prey for grooming by unscrupulous criminal agencies. Ordered by Celia, Ray controls the slaves (Picture: ITV) ‘I’m very excited and honoured to be taking part in this to hopefully educate and highlight this abominable trade of human bondage.’ Producer Laura Shaw, who has spearheaded the bold storyline, added: ‘With our farming and rural backdrop we have an ideal setting, but it’s not all fluffy sheep and rolling landscapes. The countryside, just like an urban setting, can harbour the dark undercurrents of society. ‘When Ray and Celia first came to Emmerdale it was clear that both characters were not to be trusted. We have seen their manipulation of April and Dylan, but this special stand alone episode featuring Bear ensnared in Modern Slavery, highlights the cruelty and control that these slave masters can exhibit. ‘Bear is truly trapped in his situation and over a series of scenes you begin to understand a little more how this happened. ‘I don’t think the audience will ever like the character of Ray, but hopefully there will be glimmers within this episode that make you realise he too is perhaps trapped in a world not of his making. ‘We have been extremely grateful for the support we have received from The Salvation Army for Bear’s story, but also the interlinked county lines drug story that we have been telling with April and Dylan. ‘The Salvation Army has given Emmerdale invaluable help with the portrayal of these shocking, yet prevalent situations in our society.’ If you suspect that someone you have come across is a victim of modern slavery and in need of help call The Salvation Army’s 24/7 free and confidential referral helpline on 0800 808 3733 or report your suspicions to the Modern Slavery & Exploitation Helpline on 0800 0121 700 . If someone is in immediate danger call 999.
