Modern Slavery Statement for Rubbish Removal Richmond upon Thames

Rubbish Removal Richmond upon Thames is committed to conducting all aspects of its business in an ethical and responsible manner. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We fully support the principles of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and strive to ensure that dignity, respect, and fair treatment are upheld for every individual associated with our services.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and all forms of exploitation. This applies to our direct employees, agency workers, contractors, and every supplier involved in the provision of waste removal and related services. We will not knowingly engage with or support any organisation that is involved in modern slavery or fails to uphold fundamental human rights.

All managers and supervisors are responsible for promoting this policy and ensuring that it is understood and implemented throughout their teams. Any departure from our zero-tolerance stance is treated as a serious breach of company policy and may result in termination of employment or commercial relationships.

Our Workforce and Employment Practices

We are committed to fair recruitment and employment practices. All employees are engaged on terms that comply with relevant employment legislation, including minimum wage requirements, working hour limits, and statutory rights to leave and rest. We verify the identity and eligibility to work of all staff and do not charge recruitment fees or permit third parties to do so on our behalf.

We seek to foster a culture in which employees feel safe, valued, and able to raise concerns. Training and induction processes emphasise respect, inclusion, and the absolute prohibition of exploitative practices.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chains include providers of transport, waste processing, recycling facilities, equipment, uniforms, and other goods and services required to deliver rubbish removal in Richmond upon Thames and surrounding areas. We expect the same high standards from our partners that we uphold internally.

As part of our due diligence, we communicate our expectations on modern slavery to all key suppliers and contractors. We assess the risk profile of suppliers based on factors such as sector, geography, and the nature of the services provided. Where heightened risk is identified, we may conduct more detailed checks, seek additional assurances, or require evidence of their own modern slavery policies and procedures.

We reserve the right to carry out audits of suppliers to verify compliance with our standards. These audits may include review of documentation, site visits where appropriate, and discussions with relevant staff. Failure to meet our requirements may result in corrective action plans, suspension of work, or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage all employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns relating to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised with line managers, senior management, or designated contacts responsible for compliance and human resources. Reports may be made confidentially, and we will take all reasonable steps to protect the identity of individuals who raise concerns in good faith.

We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who reports a genuine concern or participates in an investigation. Every report is taken seriously, promptly reviewed, and investigated where appropriate. Where modern slavery is suspected or identified, we will act swiftly, which may include notifying relevant authorities and supporting any affected individuals.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We aim to ensure that relevant staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management, have an understanding of modern slavery risks and the indicators of exploitation. Training and guidance are provided so that team members know how to respond to concerns and follow our internal procedures.

We recognise that the risks of modern slavery can evolve over time. We therefore keep our approach under review and seek to strengthen our processes where necessary. Feedback from staff, suppliers, and clients is welcomed as part of our commitment to continuous improvement.

Annual Review and Statement Approval

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every year to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with current legal requirements and best practice. As part of the annual review, we evaluate the effectiveness of our controls, audit outcomes, any reported concerns, and emerging risk areas within our sector and supply chains.

Following each review, we update this statement and any related policies as appropriate, and communicate any significant changes to employees and key suppliers. This statement has been approved by the senior management of Rubbish Removal Richmond upon Thames, who are responsible for its implementation and oversight across the business.