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13:33 20/11/2019
Hand car washes in Warrington were targeted by police as part of an initiative to protect those who could be at risk of modern slavery.
On Monday 18 November officers from Warrington’s Hidden Harm Team along with partner agencies - including Warrington Borough Council and Immigration – visited three premises to identify potential victims.
Throughout the day premises were thoroughly checked to ensure they are adhering to all aspects of employment, environmental and health and safety checks.
The operation identified a 20-year-old man as being a potential victim and he was taken to a place of safety.
Two men were served a referral notice by immigration in relation to working illegally at the premises.
The activity came as part of a national week of action to safeguard vulnerable adults.
Detective Constable Danielle Fildes, of the Hidden Harm Team, said: “Although we regularly undertake these operations it is an opportunity to highlight how we carry out checks in order to identify anyone who may be at risk of modern slavery and that the standard of conditions are within the law.
“Working alongside our partners we were able to engage with those who worked at the car washes and identify a man who we believe may be a victim of modern slavery. He has now been taken away from the premises and to a place of safety.
“It is extremely sad slavery still exists with vulnerable people being coerced into a range of exploitation such as trafficking, forced labour and domestic servitude. This is a crime hidden within our communities with victims suffering in silence, often feeling alone and terrified.
“While we work with our partners to identify and safeguard those who are victims, the public can help play their part too by learning how to spot common signs.”
Information from the community, no matter how small, plays a vital part in tackling modern slavery.
Here are some of the common signs that may indicate that someone could be a victim of modern slavery:
If you see something suspicious call Cheshire Constabulary on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Alternatively, you can contact the Hidden Harm Team by emailing [email protected]
For more information visit modern slavery