Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the approach taken by Wandsworth Carpet Cleaners to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting business ethically, transparently and with respect for the rights and dignity of every person.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Wandsworth Carpet Cleaners maintains a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not accept, condone or knowingly participate in any activity that involves forced, bonded, coerced or child labour. This commitment applies to every aspect of our carpet and upholstery cleaning operations, from direct employment to the sourcing of products, equipment and services.
All employees, contractors and suppliers are expected to act in accordance with this policy. Any breach of our zero-tolerance approach is treated as a serious disciplinary matter and may result in termination of employment or business relationships, as appropriate.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Wandsworth Carpet Cleaners provides professional carpet, rug and upholstery cleaning services to residential and commercial customers. Our supply chains include the procurement of cleaning chemicals, machinery and equipment, uniforms, consumables and certain subcontracted services such as specialist maintenance or waste management.
We recognise that risks related to modern slavery can arise at different stages in our supply chain, particularly where goods or components originate from higher-risk sectors or countries. We therefore take proportionate steps to identify, assess and manage these risks as part of our wider commitment to responsible sourcing.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers and business partners to uphold the same high standards that we set for ourselves. As a condition of doing business with Wandsworth Carpet Cleaners, suppliers must confirm that they do not use forced, bonded or involuntary labour and that they comply with applicable labour, employment and human rights laws.
We assess new suppliers through a combination of due diligence checks and risk-based screening. Where we identify heightened risks, we may request additional assurances about labour standards, such as written confirmations of compliance, evidence of internal policies or information about workforce conditions.
We conduct supplier audits where appropriate, focusing particularly on higher-risk categories of products or services. These audits may involve document reviews and discussions about recruitment practices, working hours, wages, freedom of movement and grievance mechanisms. Failure to meet our requirements may result in remedial action, closer monitoring or the ending of the commercial relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels
Wandsworth Carpet Cleaners encourages anyone with concerns about potential modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business to report these concerns without delay. This includes employees, contractors, suppliers and members of the public.
Employees can raise concerns directly with their line manager or escalate them to senior management if they feel unable to resolve matters locally. We also support open reporting through internal whistleblowing channels, which allow individuals to raise concerns in good faith without fear of retaliation or detrimental treatment.
All reports are treated seriously and handled sensitively. We will investigate credible concerns promptly, take appropriate remedial action and, where necessary, review our systems and controls to prevent recurrence.
Training, Awareness and Responsibilities
Responsibility for implementing this Modern Slavery Statement rests with the senior management team at Wandsworth Carpet Cleaners, who oversee compliance and risk management activities. Managers are responsible for communicating our expectations to their teams and suppliers.
We provide training and guidance to relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment and supplier management, to help them recognise the indicators of modern slavery and respond appropriately to any concerns.
Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement
We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking. This includes reviewing our policies, due diligence procedures, training and supplier oversight to ensure they remain effective and proportionate to the risks we face.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by senior management. As part of the annual review we assess any incidents or concerns raised, consider changes in our business operations or supply chains and update our measures where necessary. We are dedicated to strengthening our controls year on year and to working collaboratively with employees, suppliers and other stakeholders to eradicate modern slavery in all its forms.
This statement has been approved by the management of Wandsworth Carpet Cleaners and represents our ongoing commitment to ethical and responsible business practices.