MCSPOTTERS AT THE DRIVE-THRU
Staff watch for signs of child abuse
SERVING staff at drive-thru restaurants are being trained to spot victims of child abuse.
Police have taught workers at McDonald’s and KFC the tell-tale signs a young or vulnerable person could be being exploited.
Pub landlords and bin men will also get training under the scheme.
Employees at one McDonald’s drivethru in Redditch, Worcs, had their sessions this week.
More than 18,000 people across the area covered by West Mercia Police have been through the We Don’t Buy Crime course.
Hotel workers, licensed premises and council workers, refuse collectors, teachers and voluntary organisations are all set to take part. The training will also tell workers what to do if they suspect criminal exploitation.
We Don’t Buy Crime’s Inspector Ram Aston said: “They are our eyes and ears and may see or hear something that sparks concern.
“If that information is passed on to police, it could prove crucial in helping to prevent crime.
“The training will help staff to spot these signs, help them to identify what
information police need and how they can pass this on to us. We’re really grateful for the role our communities play in helping us to protect those who are vulnerable.
“It’s fantastic that we now have more than 18,000 people upskilled in exploitation and vulnerability. We are committed to delivering the training to even more people and even more sectors.”
Robert Holdcroft, a Redditch McDonald’s franchisee, said: “We serve thousands of customers a day, and the safety and wellbeing of anyone in and around our restaurants will always be our number one priority.”