Police have visited a hand car wash near Ely as part of an ongoing effort to address modern slavery.  

While no victims were identified at the business in Stretham, its owners were given “words of advice” about the right to work in the UK.  

Amanda Rossiter, South Neighbourhood Support Sergeant, led the visit.  

She said: “I’m pleased that we could collaborate with partner agencies to visit this site and check on the well-being of workers.  

“While we didn’t find anything today, this serves as a warning to businesses that prioritising worker welfare is imperative for Cambridgeshire police.” 

She added: “Public awareness is crucial in identifying signs of modern slavery, and we encourage anyone to report if they see something that doesn’t look right.  

“We would much rather attend the premises and discover everything is legitimate than have a victim of slavery trapped in a horrific situation." 

Officers carried out the visit yesterday (January 11) and spoke with workers and business owners. 

They were also joined by representatives from the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority, Health and Safety executives and the Environment Agency (EA).  

The EA provided the business with specific guidance on storing car fuel and cleaning chemicals.  

The majority of hand car washes are legitimate business, but there have been cases linked to modern slavery elsewhere in the country.  

The signs of modern slavery relevant to car washes include people seeming overly tired, showing signs of physical abuse and appearing intimidated by their employers.  

Lacking protective equipment, not being able to come and go as they wish, being unpaid or paid very little and working excessively long hours are also indicators.  

For further information or to report an incident, visit the Cambridgeshire Constabulary webpage about modern slavery at https://rb.gy/2awipd.