Multi-agency operation at Hartlepool car wash follows concerns of slavery, exploitation and potential illegal workers

Officers attended a local car wash in Hartlepool to investigate concerns of crime as part of a targeted multi-agency operation.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

On Tuesday, January 21, officers from Hartlepool Neighbourhood Police Team were sent to a car wash in the town in conjunction with the Regional Crime Team (NERSOU), HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), the Environment Agency and HM Immigration Officers.

A targeted multi-agency operation was carried out in response to concerns that had been raised by members of the public regarding modern slavery, exploitation and safe working practices as well as potential illegal workers.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Safeguarding checks took place with regards to the staff working at the car wash at that time.

Safeguarding checks took place with regards to the staff working at the car wash at that time. 
Photo: Hartlepool Neighbourhood Police TeamSafeguarding checks took place with regards to the staff working at the car wash at that time. 
Photo: Hartlepool Neighbourhood Police Team
Safeguarding checks took place with regards to the staff working at the car wash at that time.  Photo: Hartlepool Neighbourhood Police Team

Sergeant Rodgers, of the Hartlepool Community Safety Team, said: “We conducted today’s visit with our partners acting on information received from members of the public. The aim being to ensure that the staff are not being exploited and that the business is safe and legal.

“We rely on the local community to bring to our attention any issues that they may encounter when visiting business premises and if you have specific concerns with regards to the health and safety and working practices at a car wash you can download the ‘Safe Car Wash’ app to relay these for potential future action.”

Members of the pubclic are advised to visit www.theclewerinitiative.org/safecarwash to access more information about the ‘Safe Car Wash’ app.

Further inquiries in relation to some environmental issues are set to take place in the near future.