Coercion
Pressure that removes someone’s real freedom of choice — often through fear, guilt, dependence, or manipulation.
This information is not legal advice – it is meant to signpost information only. Please seek a professional opinion before taking action.
Legal definition
Although not always labelled separately, coercion is embedded in the Modern Slavery Act’s understanding of exploitation, consent, and control. The guidance treats coercion as including:
Threats of violence
Use of force
Psychological pressure
Abuse of power or vulnerability
Threats relating to immigration status, debt, or harm to family
The guidance explicitly links coercion to control over the victim’s choices, even where no physical force is used.
What it looks like in real life
Being pressured to “help out” or “pay someone back.”
Being told “you owe me,” “you’ll be homeless,” or “you’ll get in trouble.”
Emotional pressure within relationships.
Being made dependent on someone for food, shelter, or love.
