Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps Waste Removal Wandsworth takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our own operations and throughout our supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights and we are fully committed to acting ethically, transparently, and with integrity in all our business relationships.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Waste Removal Wandsworth operates a clear zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced or compulsory labour, and child labour. We will not knowingly engage with any person, organisation, or supplier that is involved in, or fails to take adequate steps to prevent, modern slavery in any form. This commitment applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers who are expected to uphold our standards.

All business decisions, from staff recruitment to supplier selection, must align with this zero-tolerance principle. Any suspected breach is treated seriously and may result in termination of employment, contracts, or commercial relationships, in addition to any legal action that may be appropriate.

Supply Chain Oversight and Supplier Audits

We recognise that the waste management sector can be exposed to risks related to labour exploitation, particularly through subcontracting, agency work, and the use of external service providers. To mitigate these risks, we maintain oversight of our supply chain and prioritise working with reputable, compliant suppliers.

All new suppliers are subject to a due diligence process designed to assess their approach to labour standards and modern slavery. This may include verification of identity and legal trading status, review of policies on modern slavery and human rights, and confirmation of compliance with relevant labour, health and safety, and immigration laws.

We reserve the right to conduct audits of key suppliers, either remotely or on site, to verify that adequate controls are in place. Audits may involve reviewing employment records, interviewing staff, and assessing working conditions and recruitment practices. Where concerns are identified, we expect suppliers to implement corrective action plans within clear timeframes. Failure to do so may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

Waste Removal Wandsworth is committed to creating an environment where staff, suppliers, and other stakeholders feel able to raise concerns about modern slavery or unethical conduct without fear of retaliation. We actively encourage the reporting of any suspicion or evidence of exploitation, whether within our own operations or in any part of our supply chain.

Employees are instructed to report concerns directly to their line manager or to a senior manager within the business. Where an individual feels unable to raise an issue through normal management channels, they may use our internal whistleblowing procedure, which permits confidential reporting and protects individuals from victimisation. We also welcome reports from suppliers, contractors, and members of the public who become aware of potential modern slavery risks connected to our activities.

All reports are treated seriously, investigated promptly, and, where appropriate, escalated to senior leadership. We will fully cooperate with law enforcement and regulatory bodies where criminal activity is suspected.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We aim to ensure that our team understands the signs of modern slavery and knows how to respond to potential risks. Relevant employees receive information on modern slavery as part of their induction and ongoing training. This includes guidance on recognising indicators of exploitation, engaging responsibly with contractors, and following our reporting procedures.

We are committed to continuously improving our approach as best practice and legislation evolve. We periodically review our risk assessments, due diligence processes, and staff training to ensure they remain effective and proportionate to our operations.

Annual Review and Approval

This statement is reviewed annually to reflect any changes in our business structure, supply chain profile, or legal and regulatory requirements. As part of the annual review, we assess the effectiveness of our controls, including supplier audits, training measures, and reporting mechanisms. Where improvements are identified, we update our policies, procedures, and contractual terms with suppliers.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement has been approved by the leadership of Waste Removal Wandsworth and represents our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery in all its forms and to promoting ethical, responsible practices throughout our organisation and supply chain.