Modern Slavery Statement for Rubbish Removal Richmond upon Thames

Rubbish Removal Richmond upon Thames is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and with respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out our approach to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers who work with or on behalf of Rubbish Removal Richmond upon Thames.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

We operate a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, human trafficking, servitude, and child labour. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, organisation, or supplier that is involved in or benefits from such practices.

All staff, irrespective of role or seniority, are required to support this policy and to act in a manner that upholds the dignity and rights of every person. Any behaviour or business practice that conflicts with this principle is unacceptable and will lead to immediate investigation and appropriate action, which may include termination of employment or business relationships and reporting to relevant authorities.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Rubbish Removal Richmond upon Thames provides waste collection, clearance, and responsible disposal services to domestic and commercial customers. Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles, equipment, protective clothing, waste transfer and recycling facilities, fuel suppliers, and various professional services.

We recognise that some areas of our supply chain may carry higher risks, particularly where manual labour, subcontracting, or international sourcing is involved. As such, we place particular emphasis on assessing and monitoring suppliers that operate in these areas.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers and contractors to share our commitment to combatting modern slavery. As part of our procurement and supplier management process, we:

Require suppliers to confirm compliance with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws, and to uphold standards that are consistent with this statement and our internal policies.

Conduct risk-based due diligence when onboarding new suppliers, including questions regarding labour practices, recruitment methods, use of subcontractors, and recording of working hours and wages.

Reserve the right to carry out audits, inspections, or information requests of existing suppliers where there is a heightened risk of modern slavery or where concerns have been raised. These audits may include reviewing relevant documentation, interviewing management or workers where appropriate, and assessing recruitment and payment processes.

If a supplier is found to be in breach of our standards or legal requirements, we will work with them to implement corrective actions within a defined timeframe. Where serious or repeated non-compliance occurs, we will suspend or terminate the relationship and, where necessary, report the matter to the appropriate authorities.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

We actively encourage the reporting of any concerns related to modern slavery, whether within our own operations, among colleagues, or in our supply chain. Employees, workers, and third parties may raise concerns confidentially through internal reporting channels, including line managers, senior management, or a designated compliance contact.

No person who raises a concern in good faith will suffer any form of retaliation, disadvantage, or disciplinary action as a result of speaking up. We investigate all reports promptly, take appropriate remedial and disciplinary measures where necessary, and keep records of all reported incidents and outcomes.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to increasing awareness and understanding of modern slavery across our organisation. Relevant employees receive guidance on identifying indicators of exploitation, handling concerns, and understanding our zero-tolerance stance and reporting processes.

We also keep management and key procurement staff informed of legal developments and good practice in relation to modern slavery, so they can incorporate these principles into day-to-day decisions.

Monitoring, Accountability, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery strategy sits with the senior management of Rubbish Removal Richmond upon Thames. They ensure that appropriate policies, procedures, and training are in place and that any identified risks or incidents are addressed without delay.

We review this Modern Slavery Statement and our related procedures at least once every year, or sooner if there are significant changes to legislation, our business operations, or identified risks. The annual review considers audit findings, incident reports, supplier feedback, and evolving best practice. Where improvements are identified, we update our processes and communicate these changes to relevant employees and suppliers.

By publicly setting out this Modern Slavery Statement, Rubbish Removal Richmond upon Thames reaffirms its commitment to acting with integrity, safeguarding workers in our operations and supply chains, and continually strengthening our efforts to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking.