Yesterday (15 October), police visited car washes in Stafford as part of multi-agency efforts to tackle modern slavery.

Car wash businesses, often those which are cash-in-hand, are sometimes used as fronts by organised crime gangs.

Stafford local policing team (LPT) officers were joined on the operation by immigration enforcement officers, the Fair Work Agency, His Majesty's Revenue & Customs (HMRC) and staff from the Justice and Care charity.

According to PC Helen Walker, the visits help police to gather intelligence and improve relationships with business owners in Stafford.

She 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.

"We visited two car washes to speak to members of staff about their working conditions, wages and wellbeing.

"Thankfully, no issues were raised.

"If you have concerns about a business, or any unusual activity in your area, please let us know."

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Staffordshire Police said: "In addition to local operations, our dedicated modern slavery and human trafficking team works alongside staff and officers to help gather intelligence and take positive action, investigating and supporting those suspected of having been trafficked into the country.

"Anyone who is worried that someone may be a victim of modern slavery can contact us on 101, or through our website.

"In an emergency, always call 999.

"To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."