Latest figures show 24 children were reported as victims of human trafficking in Kent during 2015.

A report published by the National Crime Agency available here shows more than 3,200 potential victims across the UK came forward last year, an increase of 40% from 2014.

Victims come from 102 countries including Nigeria, Albania and Vietnam. On arrival in the UK many are sexually exploited or forced to work illegally.

The shocking statistics come as the county's MEP Catherine Bearder adds her voice to growing demands for more to be done to help victims of human trafficking across the European Union, particularly women and children.

She said:“Modern slavery is happening right under our noses, including right here in Kent.

“While there has been a lot of progress made in recent years to dismantle criminal gangs running this vile trade, not enough is being done to help the victims.

“The government must step up efforts to train law enforcement officials so they can spot the signs and give human trafficking victims the help they need.”

Some victims are migrants fleeing poverty and war, some are just seeking a better life.

But while the victims of people traffickers suffer, the organised gangs running such criminal networks can net hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Officials are warning that many trafficked children are not receiving the support they are entitled to under the EU's human trafficking law, including safe accommodation, counselling and access to education.

The report also urges states should do more to collect information on the problem.

In March eight people were arrested in police raids across Medway as authorities attempted to crack down on an organised gang of modern day slavers.

But authorities acknowledge this may just be the tip of the iceberg.