Modern Slavery Statement for Carpet Cleaners Richmond upon Thames

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Carpet Cleaners Richmond upon Thames and sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting business in an ethical, responsible, and transparent way, and to upholding the human rights and dignity of all individuals who work for or with us.

Modern slavery is a crime and a serious violation of fundamental human rights. It includes slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, child labour, and human trafficking. We recognise that these abuses can occur in any sector, including cleaning and related services, and we are determined to ensure that they have no place in our business.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

Carpet Cleaners Richmond upon Thames operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly work with any individual, contractor, or organisation that engages in or condones such practices. Our policy applies to all employees, agency staff, contractors, and suppliers who provide goods or services to our business.

All colleagues are expected to act with integrity and to uphold our values of fairness, respect, and compliance with the law. Any breach of our zero-tolerance policy may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment or the ending of commercial relationships with third parties.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

We understand that the risk of modern slavery can be heightened within supply chains, particularly where multiple tiers of subcontracting and sourcing are involved. To address this, we set clear expectations for all suppliers and contractors who provide products, equipment, or services to Carpet Cleaners Richmond upon Thames.

Suppliers are required to confirm that they do not use forced or bonded labour, that all workers are employed voluntarily, and that working conditions comply with applicable labour and employment laws. We expect suppliers to provide safe working environments, fair wages, and reasonable working hours, and to prohibit any form of abuse, harassment, or unlawful discrimination.

We conduct proportionate due diligence and audits of our key suppliers, which may include requesting documentation, reviewing policies, and where appropriate undertaking site visits. If we identify any indication of non-compliance, we will work with the supplier to address and remedy the issue within a defined timescale. Where serious or repeated breaches occur, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Channels for Raising Issues

Carpet Cleaners Richmond upon Thames encourages a culture of openness and accountability, where concerns about modern slavery or unethical practices can be raised without fear of retaliation. All employees, contractors, and suppliers have a responsibility to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery connected to our business.

Concerns can be raised through normal management channels or directly with a senior manager. Reports will be treated seriously, sensitively, and, where possible, confidentially. We will investigate all allegations promptly and take appropriate action, which may include notifying relevant authorities, suspending relationships, or implementing corrective measures.

No one will suffer any form of detrimental treatment for making a report in good faith, even if it is not ultimately substantiated. Victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern is strictly prohibited and will be addressed in line with our disciplinary procedures.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our team and relevant partners. Where appropriate, employees involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management will receive information and guidance on identifying risk factors and responding to potential issues.

We strive to improve our practices on an ongoing basis by reviewing our policies, engaging with suppliers, and updating our procedures in line with legal developments and industry best practice. We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing task, not a one-off exercise, and we are determined to play our part in eradicating it from our sector.

Annual Review of this Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually by the management of Carpet Cleaners Richmond upon Thames to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with current legislation and guidance. The review will consider any incidents reported, the outcomes of supplier audits, feedback from stakeholders, and developments in best practice.

Following each annual review, we will update our statement and, where necessary, enhance our procedures to strengthen our response to the risk of modern slavery and human trafficking. By maintaining this active review process, Carpet Cleaners Richmond upon Thames reinforces its commitment to ethical business conduct and the protection of human rights throughout our operations and supply chains.