Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement for Rubbish Clearance Kingston upon Thames

Rubbish Clearance Kingston upon Thames is committed to conducting all aspects of its business ethically, responsibly, and in full compliance with applicable laws. We recognise that modern slavery and human trafficking are serious crimes and violations of fundamental human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent, identify, and address modern slavery risks within our operations and supply chains.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

We operate a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour in any form. This applies to all areas of our business, including our direct workforce, contractors, and suppliers of goods and services. We expect all individuals and organisations working with us or on our behalf to share these values and uphold the same high standards of conduct.

All employees, managers, and representatives of Rubbish Clearance Kingston upon Thames are required to act with integrity and take responsibility for helping to ensure that modern slavery has no place in our business. Any breach of this policy by staff may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Any supplier found to be in breach may face suspension or termination of their contract.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Rubbish Clearance Kingston upon Thames provides rubbish clearance and related waste management services in Kingston upon Thames and surrounding areas. Our operations involve the collection, handling, and transfer of various waste streams, supported by a network of suppliers and service providers, including vehicle and equipment suppliers, uniform and consumable providers, and subcontracted labour where necessary.

We recognise that some parts of the waste management and broader logistics sectors may present elevated risks of labour exploitation. We therefore maintain a risk-based approach to assessing and managing modern slavery risks within our business and supply chains.

Supplier Standards and Audit Process

We expect all suppliers, subcontractors, and business partners to comply with our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery. As part of our supplier onboarding and ongoing management, we seek assurances that:

They comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. They prohibit forced, bonded, or involuntary labour. They do not use child labour. They provide fair working conditions, including appropriate wages, working hours, and safe workplaces.

Where appropriate, we conduct supplier due diligence checks, including requests for information on labour practices, workforce demographics, and any existing modern slavery policies. We reserve the right to carry out audits or site visits, either directly or through third parties, to assess compliance. If concerns are identified, we will work with the supplier to address them within a reasonable timeframe. Where remediation is not feasible or cooperation is lacking, we may terminate the relationship.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities

Responsibility for overseeing this Modern Slavery Statement and related procedures rests with our senior management team. Operational managers are responsible for implementing the policy within their areas and for ensuring staff understand their obligations.

We aim to raise awareness of modern slavery risks by providing guidance and information to relevant staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management. Employees are encouraged to familiarise themselves with common indicators of labour exploitation so they can identify and report any concerns.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

We encourage anyone who has concerns about potential modern slavery or human trafficking within our operations or supply chains to report these concerns without delay. Reports may be made to a line manager, a member of senior management, or via our confidential reporting arrangements where available. All concerns raised in good faith will be taken seriously and investigated appropriately.

No employee or worker will suffer any retaliation, victimisation, or detriment for raising a concern about modern slavery, even if it is ultimately not substantiated, provided it is reported honestly and in good faith.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that addressing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility that requires continuous improvement. Each year, we review the effectiveness of our actions, including our risk assessments, supplier due diligence, and staff awareness initiatives. This annual review will consider any incidents reported, the outcome of investigations, and feedback from employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders.

Following the annual review, this Modern Slavery Statement may be updated to reflect changes in legislation, industry best practice, and the evolving nature of our business and supply chains. The updated statement will outline any new measures or enhancements we have introduced to better prevent and respond to modern slavery risks.

This Statement has been approved by the management of Rubbish Clearance Kingston upon Thames and will be reviewed and, where necessary, revised on an annual basis.