Public asked to download app to help spot signs of modern slavery at hand car washes

Users of hand car washes are being asked to download a mobile app that helps spot the signs of modern slavery.

The Safe Car Wash app gives users a number of points that may indicate that those working there may be victims of modern slavery – and if enough are found then they will be directed to the Modern Slavery Helpline.

The app, which is free to download, also pinpoints the location of the hand car wash the driver is using – giving up to date information about the number of car washes and providing police and partners with locations so safeguarding visits can be organised.

To find out more about the app – and to download it – visit: The Clewer Initiative | HOW YOU CAN HELP

Detective Sergeant Ross O’Brien, from Derbyshire Constabulary’s Adult Exploitation Investigation Team, said: “Modern slavery is often hidden in plain sight – and it is absolutely crucial that people know the signs to spot.

“In Derbyshire, as well as across the country, we have seen vulnerable people trafficked into the UK, forced to live in squalid conditions and work for a pittance.

“Victims will routinely have their passports taken from them and are often threatened with violence should they try and raise the alarm about their situation.

“That’s why the public understanding the signs of modern slavery and alerting authorities to potential victims is absolutely crucial.

“The Safe Car Wash app is a brilliant, free, tool that can help us to do exactly that – and I would urge anyone who may use a hand car wash to download it today.”

Spotting the Signs of Modern Slavery

• appear to be under the control of someone else and reluctant to interact with others
• not have personal identification on them
• have few personal belongings, wear the same clothes every day or wear unsuitable clothes for work
• not be able to move around freely
• be reluctant to talk to strangers or the authorities
• appear frightened, withdrawn, or show signs of physical or psychological abuse
• dropped off and collected for work always in the same way, especially at unusual times, i.e. very early or late at night.

If you suspect a business of using modern slaves then you can contact Derbyshire police using any of the below methods at any time, in confidence:

• Facebook – send us a private message to our Facebook page
• Twitter – direct message our contact centre via @DerPolContact
• Website – We have several crime reporting tools on our website or use our online contact form
• Phone – call us on 101

You can also anonymously contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111, or by visiting the CrimeStoppers website.

You can also contact organisations that deal directly with abuse of this kind through the following agencies:

• Call the Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700 or fill out an online form.
• Contact the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority to report concerns about the mistreatement of workers on 0800 432 0804, or by email [email protected]