Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the actions taken by Waste Removal South Kensington to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and exploitation in our business operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and to respect the rights and dignity of every person connected to our activities.

Modern slavery is a serious crime and a grave violation of fundamental human rights. It can take many forms, including slavery, servitude, human trafficking, forced or compulsory labour, debt bondage and exploitation of vulnerable workers. Waste Removal South Kensington is committed to identifying, preventing and addressing any risk of modern slavery in all aspects of our work.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Waste Removal South Kensington operates a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with, support or benefit from any form of exploitation. This stance applies to all employees, workers, agency staff, contractors, suppliers, and any other parties acting on our behalf.

All staff are expected to act with integrity and to comply with our policies on ethical conduct and human rights. We prohibit the use of forced, bonded or involuntary labour in any context, as well as child labour that is inconsistent with applicable laws and international standards. Any breach of this policy by employees may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Any breach by suppliers or contractors may result in termination of contracts and removal from our approved supplier list.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our services rely on a network of suppliers and subcontractors that provide vehicles, equipment, waste processing, protective clothing, and other goods and services. We require all suppliers to conduct their business in a manner consistent with our values and our commitment to preventing modern slavery.

Prior to engagement, new suppliers are assessed for ethical and labour practices. This assessment may include due diligence checks, review of their own modern slavery statements and policies, and confirmation that they comply with relevant legislation. We expect suppliers to demonstrate transparency in their employment practices and to maintain appropriate records regarding worker rights, working hours, and wage payments.

We conduct periodic supplier audits, which may be announced or unannounced, to monitor compliance with our standards. These audits can include site visits, interviews with management and workers, and examination of documentation related to recruitment, contracts and pay. Where issues are identified, we work with suppliers to agree corrective actions and timelines. If a supplier fails to make adequate improvements, we reserve the right to suspend or end the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Concerns

Waste Removal South Kensington encourages a culture of openness where concerns about modern slavery and unethical practices can be raised without fear of retaliation or adverse consequences. All employees, workers, suppliers and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery linked to our business or supply chains.

Concerns may be raised with a line manager, a senior manager or directly with our designated compliance contact within the company. Reports can be made in person, by phone or in writing. We treat all reports seriously, investigate them promptly and, where appropriate, involve senior leadership. Confidentiality is respected as far as possible, and anyone raising a concern in good faith will be protected from victimisation.

If an investigation identifies a genuine concern, we will take all reasonable steps to address the situation, which may include working with law enforcement or specialist organisations, supporting affected individuals, and reviewing our processes to prevent recurrence.

Training, Awareness and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to building awareness of modern slavery risks within our workforce. Relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management and site supervision, are provided with guidance on identifying indicators of modern slavery, understanding reporting routes and applying our zero-tolerance policy.

We regularly review our internal policies, risk assessments and supplier management processes to ensure they remain effective. This includes evaluating changes in legislation, industry best practice and feedback from audits and reported concerns. Our aim is to continuously improve our ability to detect and mitigate modern slavery risks.

Annual Review and Approval

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed at least annually to ensure it reflects our current structure, business activities and supply chain relationships. As part of this review, we assess the effectiveness of our actions over the previous year, identify any new or emerging risks, and set objectives for further improvement.

The updated statement is considered and approved by the senior management of Waste Removal South Kensington and communicated internally to relevant staff. It is also made available externally to our customers, suppliers and other interested parties as a demonstration of our ongoing commitment to ethical and responsible business conduct.

Waste Removal South Kensington remains firmly committed to acting with integrity, promoting respect for human rights, and working collaboratively with partners and stakeholders to help eradicate modern slavery in all its forms.