Modern Slavery Statement for Rubbish Clearance Merton

Rubbish Clearance Merton is committed to conducting all aspects of our business ethically, transparently, and with respect for fundamental human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers engaged by Rubbish Clearance Merton.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, servitude, and child labour. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, organisation, or supplier involved in such practices. Where credible concerns are identified, we will investigate promptly and take decisive action, which may include terminating contracts, reporting concerns to the relevant authorities, and supporting affected individuals where possible.

All managers are responsible for promoting awareness of this policy and ensuring that decisions about recruitment, procurement, and subcontracting reflect our zero-tolerance stance. We expect everyone representing Rubbish Clearance Merton to challenge any behaviour or practice that appears inconsistent with this commitment.

Our Operations and Supply Chain

Rubbish Clearance Merton provides waste removal and clearance services across Merton and surrounding areas. Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles, fuel, equipment, protective clothing, waste processing facilities, and agency labour. We recognise that some elements of the waste and recycling sector can carry an elevated risk of labour exploitation, especially in lower-skilled and subcontracted roles.

We work to identify and manage these risks by engaging directly with our suppliers and by favouring long-term, transparent relationships over short-term or informal arrangements. We expect our suppliers to adhere to the same high standards we set for ourselves.

Supplier Standards and Audits

All key suppliers are required to confirm that they comply with applicable labour laws and do not use forced, trafficked, or child labour. We communicate our zero-tolerance approach and make it clear that continued business is dependent on meeting our ethical standards.

We conduct proportionate supplier checks and audits, prioritising areas where the risk of modern slavery may be higher. These checks may include requests for documented labour policies, verification of right-to-work procedures, review of recruitment practices, and, where appropriate, on-site visits or discussions with management. Any non-compliance identified through these checks must be addressed promptly through a corrective action plan. Failure to implement adequate improvements may result in the suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Rubbish Clearance Merton encourages anyone with concerns about possible modern slavery or human trafficking in our operations or supply chains to report them without delay. Concerns may relate to unfair recruitment fees, retention of identity documents, intimidation, unsafe living conditions, or any indication of coercion or exploitation.

Reports can be made to any line manager, a senior manager, or directly to a designated safeguarding contact within the company. We will treat all concerns seriously, investigate them sensitively, and, where appropriate, refer matters to relevant external agencies. We are committed to protecting those who raise concerns in good faith from retaliation or detrimental treatment.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

Relevant staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and contractor management, receive guidance on identifying indicators of modern slavery and on using the reporting channels available. We promote awareness of this statement during induction and through ongoing internal communication to ensure that employees understand their responsibilities.

We aim to improve our approach over time, learning from audits, investigations, and industry best practice. Where necessary, we will enhance our procedures, update our contractual terms with suppliers, and provide additional training.

Annual Review of this Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, up to date, and aligned with our operational reality and legal obligations. The review will consider any incidents reported, audit findings, changes in our supply chain, and developments in guidance or regulation relating to modern slavery and human trafficking.

Following each review, we will update the statement as required and communicate any significant changes to employees and key suppliers. Rubbish Clearance Merton is committed to continual improvement and to playing our part in eliminating modern slavery in all its forms.