The problem of modern slavery in hand car washes across the UK remains grave. While many operate legitimately, numerous businesses continue to exploit vulnerable workers. According to recent evidence, more than 90 percent of hand car washes may be employing workers illegally – game‑changers are needed.
What’s changed since 2015
The tragic death of Sandu Laurentiu in 2015, who was electrocuted in unsafe accommodation arranged by his employer, remains a harrowing reminder of what can go wrong when worker welfare is neglected.
Despite such cases raising awareness, systemic exploitation continues. Nottingham Trent University, partnering with The Clewer Initiative, reports that over 90 percent of hand car washes are likely non‑compliant with laws governing pay, records, personal protective equipment or first aid.
Since its launch in 2018, the Safe Car Wash App has helped the public report suspected exploitation. Over 8,000 downloads and nearly 9,000 reports have been submitted, informing local authorities and law enforcement.
In 2023, Clewer Initiative analysis of the last 18 months of app data reinforced the sector’s endemic risk of exploitation and modern slavery.
Most alarmingly, enforcement has stepped up in recent years. Over the last four years, UK car washes have been fined £12 million for illegal employment, although £8 million remains unpaid. The number of fines issued has risen 800 percent since 2021. Labour’s Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, has pledged further crackdowns.
Police operations continue to disrupt criminal networks operating through seemingly ordinary storefronts. In April 2025, raids on 265 cash‑intensive businesses–barbers, car washes among them, uncovered evidence of modern slavery, money laundering, and human trafficking. These operations resulted in freezing more than £1 million in assets and safeguarding nearly 100 individuals.
Home Office officials have also warned customers against using cash‑only services, noting that such environments can facilitate illegal immigration and labour exploitation.
What’s being done to address the crisis
- Public Reporting Tools: The Safe Car Wash App remains a critical frontline tool. Users can report suspicious conditions instantly via modern slavery helpline integration and GPS tagging.
- Research and Mapping: NTU and Clewer Initiative analyses have mapped thousands of hand car washes and shown no area is immune to risk. This data supports police intelligence and proactive interventions.
- Enforcement Escalation: Fines and raids are increasing. Authorities are now better equipped to act, but exploitation tactics, like business closures and rebranding – continue to challenge enforcement.
Why Washdoctors is different
At Washdoctors, our model stands firmly against these unethical practices. We prioritise fairness, transparency and community trust:
- Fair Pay and Freedom
Our washers receive 75 to 80 percent of the wash fee and can earn up to £150 per day depending on demand. They are supported, not isolated. - Worker Centric Model
Unlike delivery drivers, our washers uphold the service quality directly through their work. We encourage choice in workload, whether someone wants two or five days of work per week, and we host gatherings to foster team spirit. - Community Connection
Washers engage directly with customers. Feedback goes straight to HQ, and many of our improvements originate from these conversations. We cultivate a family-friendly atmosphere to make everyone feel at ease. - Customer Engagement & Quality Assurance
Our app integrates post-wash ratings and comments, allowing customers to share experience feedback. This strengthens accountability and connection between customers and our team.
A vision for the future of the gig economy
The hand car wash industry must change, and Washdoctors aims to lead that transformation. With mounting controversies around gig-work platforms across sectors, our approach offers a balanced, humane alternative.
We are dedicated to building an environment where dignity and quality go hand in hand – making Washdoctors not just the antithesis of modern slavery in car washing, but a model for ethical gig work.
Come join our dynamic team and help make lasting change.
