Modern Slavery Statement for Rubbish Removal Merton

This Modern Slavery Statement is issued by Rubbish Removal Merton for the current financial year. It outlines our ongoing efforts to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that the waste management and recycling sector can be exposed to risks related to vulnerable and temporary labour, and we are committed to identifying, preventing, and addressing any such risks.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Rubbish Removal Merton provides household, commercial, and construction waste removal services. Our operations are primarily based in the local area, supported by a network of suppliers and subcontractors, including transport providers, recycling facilities, equipment suppliers, and labour agencies. We understand that modern slavery risks may arise at any point in these relationships, especially where low-skilled, temporary, or migrant labour is involved.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, and exploitation. This zero-tolerance stance applies to our own business activities and to all organisations that supply goods or services to us. We expect all employees, contractors, and suppliers to act ethically and with integrity, and to comply with all applicable laws relating to modern slavery and human rights.

Any breach of this policy by employees may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. For suppliers and subcontractors, non-compliance may lead to suspension of work, termination of contracts, and notification to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We are committed to working only with suppliers and subcontractors who share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. As part of our supplier onboarding and ongoing management, we:

Request confirmation that suppliers comply with all modern slavery and human rights legislation relevant to their operations.

Communicate our zero-tolerance position and our expectations regarding ethical conduct, working conditions, and fair treatment of workers.

Reserve the right to conduct audits or request evidence of compliance, including policies, training records, and information about labour practices.

Where we identify a potential risk, we may conduct more detailed assessments or site visits, and we will work with suppliers to address any issues identified. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to meet our standards, we will review the relationship and may seek alternative partners.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Rubbish Removal Merton encourages all employees, suppliers, subcontractors, and members of the public to report any concerns related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to our business. Concerns may include indications of forced labour, unfair recruitment fees, withheld wages, confiscation of identification documents, or unsafe and exploitative working conditions.

Reports can be made to management or relevant supervisors through established communication channels within the company. We are committed to handling all reports sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. We will not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith, whether the concern is ultimately substantiated or not.

Training and Awareness

We aim to build awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, especially those responsible for procurement, contract management, and supplier engagement. Training and guidance are provided to help staff recognise warning signs of exploitation and understand how to escalate concerns. We also review internal procedures to ensure that recruitment and employment practices within our own operations are fair, transparent, and compliant with all employment laws.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing this Modern Slavery Statement and related measures rests with the senior management of Rubbish Removal Merton. We monitor the effectiveness of our approach through ongoing review of supplier performance, incident reports, and feedback from staff and partners.

This statement is reviewed at least annually to reflect changes in our business operations, supply chains, and legal requirements, and to incorporate lessons learned from audits, reports, and industry best practice. Any necessary updates to our policies, procedures, and training will be implemented as part of this review process to strengthen our prevention of modern slavery and human trafficking.

By publishing this Modern Slavery Statement, Rubbish Removal Merton reaffirms its commitment to conducting business responsibly, respecting human rights, and working continuously to eliminate the risk of modern slavery from our operations and supply chains.