Government targets modern slavery with car-wash Kitemark scheme

Car washes are to be given a Kitemark-style scheme in an attempt to crack down on modern slavery.

The Responsible Car Wash Scheme, a collaboration between government bodies, has been launched in response to a lack of compliance in the hand car-washing industry, The Telegraph reported on Monday.

The scheme aims to target labour abuse and lack of adherence to regulations, as well as tackling environmental waste and pollution caused by car washes.

Following the scheme’s pilot in November, the public will be able to choose a car wash based on a logo displayed at responsible sites that have passed an audit.

Sites displaying the logo will protect the environment, deal with pollution appropriately, and operate safe and ethical conditions for their workers.

The Telegraph reported that the scheme is being run in conjunction with Waves, a company that washes millions of cars a year at its supermarket, retail and car park sites.

Through the new scheme, Waves wants other companies to follow its lead in regulating car washes.

APSCo briefs House of Lords on more amendments to Employment Rights Bill

Trade body APSCo has warned Peers of urgent amendments needed to the Employment Rights Bill, which must be addressed before it reaches Royal Assent.

Legislation 30 April 2025

Businesses need to be patient for OPW rules to change

Small businesses will need to wait a few more years before being relinquished of their off-payroll working obligations.

Legislation 14 April 2025

Californian master plan calls for new statewide collaborative to align education, training and hiring needs

In the US, the state of California is proposing to launch digital career passports for the labour market.

Legislation 14 April 2025

Zero-hours contracts must be ‘transparent and consistent’ says REC’s Shoesmith

Government must ensure that “transparency and consistency” exist around zero-hours contracts that workers can request.

Legislation 1 April 2025
Top