Officers visit Stafford car washes in anti-modern slavery drive
Police say no issues were raised by staff at the two businesses visited
Police and partner agencies have visited car washes in Stafford as part of multi-agency efforts to tackle modern slavery.
Staffordshire Police said car washes are often cash-in-hand businesses that can be used as fronts for organised crime gangs, including in Staffordshire.
Officers from Stafford local policing team were joined on the operation on Thursday 15th October by immigration enforcement officers, the Fair Work Agency, His Majesty's Revenue & Customs (HMRC) and staff from the charity Justice and Care.
The force said two car washes were visited and staff were spoken to about their working conditions, wages and wellbeing.
PC Helen Walker said the visits were part of work to build intelligence and improve relationships with business owners in the town.
PC Walker said: "We have conducted these multi-agency visits to ensure the welfare and wellbeing of workers and to gain a deeper understanding of business operations."
She said: "We visited two car washes to speak to members of staff about their working conditions, wages and wellbeing. Thankfully, no issues were raised."
PC Walker added: "If you have concerns about a business, or any unusual activity in your area, please let us know."
The force said its dedicated modern slavery and human trafficking team also works alongside staff and officers to gather intelligence and take action, investigating and supporting those suspected of having been trafficked into the country.
Anyone worried that someone may be a victim of modern slavery can contact Staffordshire Police on 101 or through its website. In an emergency, always call 999.
To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.