A POLITICIAN is sporting brightly painted nails as a visible protest against modern day slavery.

Stockton North’s MP Alex Cunningham is the latest public figure to lend his support to the Let’s Nail It campaign, launched by anti-slavery charity Unseen.

The initiative urges the public to keep their eyes open for signs of slavery in nail bars, where victims of human trafficking are sometimes put to work.

Mr Cunningham said: “Raising public awareness around slavery in nail bars is a crucial step in tackling this hidden crime.

“I strongly encourage consumers to remain vigilant to the signs of modern slavery, to ensure that perpetrators of human trafficking are exposed and victims are given the help and support they need.”

Since 2016, the Modern Slavery Helpline has received reports of slavery in nail bars from 35 locations across the country, involving more than 100 potential victims, 11 of whom were children.

Some warning signs to look out for:

• Do employees appear withdrawn or unwilling to engage?

• Do they appear younger than you'd expect? Are they avoiding eye contact, or is the presence or behaviour of another individual making them seem frightened?

• Are they resistant to being paid directly?

• Is there a manager who takes the money and is overbearing or abusive?

• Are there living quarters upstairs or attached to the nail salon? Are employees brought to work at the same time?

• Do they speak to others in the salon?

• Can they speak English? Being unable to speak English can increase people's vulnerability.

• Do prices seem 'too good to be true'?

• Is the vibe you're getting making you feel uncomfortable?

Suspicions can be reported to the Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700.