The soap will expose the “brutal truth” while focussing on a powerful topic
Bear’s heartbreaking story will finally be revealed(Image: ITV)
Emmerdale is set to air a special episode focussing on the issue of modern slavery. The standalone episode of the ITV soap will air on Monday November, 10 and will delve into the world of modern slavery. Emmerdale has been collaborating with The Salvation Army for the hard-hitting topic.
The soap has worked with the charity from the outset, ensuring the programme’s producers, writers and researchers have been authentically informed to aid this heartbreaking portrayal of an elderly man who quickly finds himself trapped.
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. 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.”
When Paddy Dingle (Dominic Brunt) realises his dad, Bear (Joshua Richards), never made it to Ireland, he becomes increasingly worried.
Having not heard from his dad for months after a period of tension, Paddy is desperate to track him down and reconcile.
As Paddy embarks on his search, Emmerdale will reveal Bear’s appalling circumstances. If only Paddy knew just how near, yet how far, his father truly was.
Bear, a former family man and fighter, is now living on the edge of society, still within physical reach of his old life in Emmerdale.
However, his circumstances make him believe he is a million miles from reconnecting with his family and his past. Through flashbacks, we witness how Bear was first taken in by seemingly kind people, offered “work” in exchange for board and lodgings.
Very quickly, it becomes clear this is manipulation at its most extreme. Under their control, Bear finds himself unable to fathom life outside his current existence. Soon, he is injured, frail, and entirely at the mercy of his captors. Bear has never been more alone.
This episode aims to shine a light on the tragically common existence of modern slavery that thrives on the edges of our society – unseen and unsuspected.
Joshua Richards, who plays Bear, also spoke about his experience filming this special episode. He said: “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.
“I’m very excited and honoured to be taking part in this to hopefully educate and highlight this abominable trade of human bondage.”
Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw said: “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.”
She continued:“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.”
Emmerdale airs weekdays at 7:30 PM on ITV1 and STV, or from 7:00 AM on ITVX and STV Player.
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.
