Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Rubbish Clearance Richmond upon Thames is committed to conducting all aspects of our waste collection and clearance operations in a lawful, ethical, and socially responsible manner. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement explains the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains. It applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers engaged by our company.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

We have a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, and exploitation. We do not knowingly engage with any party involved in such practices and we expect the same high standards from everyone with whom we do business. Our senior management is responsible for ensuring that this commitment is implemented, understood, and enforced across the organisation.

All commercial decisions, from recruitment through to procurement and subcontracting, must align with this zero-tolerance approach. Any failure to meet our standards is treated as a serious breach of contract and may result in termination of the business relationship, as well as notification to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Rubbish Clearance Richmond upon Thames provides waste clearance, rubbish removal, and related services to domestic and commercial customers. Our supply chains primarily involve the sourcing of equipment, personal protective equipment, vehicles, fuel, waste transfer and recycling facilities, as well as the use of subcontracted labour for certain operational tasks.

We recognise that parts of the waste and recycling sector can be vulnerable to exploitation, particularly where low-skilled and temporary labour is used. We therefore pay particular attention to recruitment practices, labour agencies, and any subcontractors who provide manual or operational services on our behalf.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We are committed to working only with suppliers and partners who share our values and demonstrate robust policies in relation to modern slavery. As part of our due diligence process, we assess new suppliers on their ethical standards and their own approach to labour practices. Where appropriate, suppliers are asked to confirm that they comply with relevant legislation and that they do not tolerate forced or trafficked labour in their own operations and supply chains.

We reserve the right to carry out audits, inspections, or requests for additional information from suppliers and subcontractors to verify compliance with our expectations. This may include site visits, document reviews, and discussions with management about recruitment methods, worker conditions, and grievance procedures. Any concerns identified through these audits will trigger corrective actions or, where necessary, the ending of the business relationship.

Training, Awareness and Responsibilities

Managers and staff involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management receive guidance on recognising indicators of modern slavery and on the importance of checking that workers are employed freely and legally. All employees are reminded that everyone has a responsibility to report any suspicion of exploitation or unethical labour practices encountered during their work.

We also encourage open discussions about labour standards and human rights so that modern slavery risks are understood and actively managed as part of our daily operations.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone, whether an employee, worker, contractor, or member of the public, to raise concerns about modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business. Concerns can be reported to a line manager, a member of senior management, or directly to our designated safeguarding contact. Reports can be made confidentially, and we will take all reasonable steps to protect individuals who raise concerns in good faith from victimisation or retaliation.

All reports will be investigated promptly and fairly. Where there is evidence of criminal behaviour, we will cooperate fully with law enforcement and other authorities. We will also review our controls and processes to prevent similar issues arising in the future.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires vigilance and continuous improvement. Each year, our senior management team will review this Statement, assess our risk exposure, and evaluate the effectiveness of the measures we have in place. This review will consider any incidents reported, changes in legislation, developments in best practice, and feedback from employees and suppliers.

Following this annual review, we will update our policies, procedures, and training where necessary to strengthen our approach. By doing so, Rubbish Clearance Richmond upon Thames seeks to uphold human rights, promote fair working conditions, and contribute to the elimination of modern slavery and human trafficking in our industry.