Modern Slavery Statement for Rubbish Collection St John's Wood

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the approach taken by Rubbish Collection St John's Wood to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to respect and protect human rights, and we are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Rubbish Collection St John's Wood adopts a strict zero-tolerance stance towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour and exploitation. This applies to our own activities and to everyone we work with, including suppliers, subcontractors and other business partners.

We expect the same high standards from all those we engage with. Any evidence or reasonable suspicion of modern slavery associated with our business or supply chain will be investigated promptly, and appropriate action will be taken, which may include termination of contracts and reporting to relevant authorities.

Scope of Operations and Supply Chain

Our core activities include the collection, handling and transfer of household and commercial waste and recyclables in and around St John's Wood. Our supply chain primarily consists of providers of vehicles, equipment, waste containers, personal protective equipment, maintenance services, cleaning services and administrative support.

We recognise that certain areas of the waste and recycling sector can be vulnerable to labour exploitation, particularly where low-skilled or temporary work is involved. We therefore focus our efforts on these higher-risk areas when assessing modern slavery risks.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

We require our suppliers and contractors to comply with all applicable laws relating to employment, labour and human rights. As part of our onboarding process, key suppliers are asked to confirm that they do not engage in modern slavery or human trafficking and that they have appropriate policies and controls in place.

Our standard contractual terms include clauses that prohibit modern slavery and human trafficking and require suppliers to notify us immediately of any suspected or actual breaches. Failure to meet these requirements may lead to suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

To support our zero-tolerance approach, we undertake proportionate audits and monitoring of selected suppliers, focusing particularly on those that present higher risk because of the nature of work, geography or use of temporary labour. These audits may include document reviews, checks on right-to-work procedures, assessment of recruitment practices and, where appropriate, on-site visits.

Where we identify concerns, we seek to work with the supplier to improve standards within a reasonable timeframe. If serious issues are identified or corrective actions are not implemented, we will consider ending the relationship and, if necessary, referring the matter to the relevant authorities.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Rubbish Collection St John's Wood encourages anyone connected with our business to speak up about concerns relating to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. This includes our employees, agency workers, suppliers and their workers, and members of the public.

Concerns can be raised through internal management channels, via our designated compliance contact, or directly to senior management. Reports can be made confidentially, and we do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith.

All concerns will be taken seriously, investigated appropriately and handled sensitively. Where necessary, we will cooperate fully with law enforcement and other competent authorities.

Training and Awareness

We provide relevant training and guidance to managers and staff, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management and workforce supervision. Training covers the signs of modern slavery, how to report concerns and our expectations of suppliers and contractors.

We also promote awareness across the business by communicating our policies and reinforcing the importance of ethical conduct and respect for human rights.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We are committed to continually improving our approach to identifying and addressing modern slavery risks. Each year, we review the effectiveness of our policies, due diligence processes, supplier audits and training programmes.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by senior management to ensure it remains current, effective and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. Where necessary, we update our procedures and introduce additional controls to strengthen our prevention efforts.

By maintaining a clear zero-tolerance policy, implementing supplier audits, providing accessible reporting channels and undertaking regular reviews, Rubbish Collection St John's Wood aims to play a responsible role in the fight against modern slavery and human trafficking.