Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Policy Statement

Rubbish Clearance Swiss Cottage is committed to conducting all aspects of our waste clearance and related services with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking 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, workers, contractors, and suppliers engaged with our business.

Modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights. It includes slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking. We recognise our responsibility to identify, prevent, and address any risks of modern slavery connected with our activities.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Rubbish Clearance Swiss Cottage has a zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, organisation, or supplier involved in or connected to these practices. Any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery will be treated as a critical compliance issue and will result in prompt investigation and, where appropriate, termination of relationships and reporting to relevant authorities.

This zero-tolerance stance is embedded in our company values, our approach to recruitment, and our expectations of those who work with or for us. All employees and managers are expected to act with integrity and challenge any behaviour that is inconsistent with this policy.

Our Supply Chain and Supplier Standards

Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles, equipment, uniforms, protective clothing, fuel, waste transfer and disposal facilities, and ancillary services such as maintenance and office support. We expect all suppliers to uphold high standards of ethical conduct, labour practices, and human rights.

We communicate our zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery to new suppliers at the outset of our business relationships and reinforce these expectations as relationships develop. We aim to work with suppliers who share our commitment to fair treatment, safe working conditions, and lawful employment practices.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

Rubbish Clearance Swiss Cottage carries out proportionate due diligence on suppliers, particularly where services are labour-intensive or where higher geographical or sector-based risks may exist. This may include reviewing supplier policies, seeking confirmation of their own modern slavery controls, and assessing the nature of their workforce arrangements.

We reserve the right to conduct audits or request evidence of compliance from suppliers, including documentation on wages, working hours, age verification, right-to-work checks, and health and safety procedures. Where concerns are identified, we will work with the supplier to implement corrective actions within clear timeframes. Persistent non-compliance or refusal to cooperate may result in the suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

We actively encourage employees, agency workers, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns relating to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns may include suspicious working conditions, indications of coercion, withholding of identity documents, or unreasonable restrictions on freedom of movement.

Reports can be made directly to line managers, senior management, or via our internal whistleblowing channels. Individuals are encouraged to raise concerns as early as possible, and they may do so confidentially. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith, and all reports will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively.

Training and Awareness

Rubbish Clearance Swiss Cottage is committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and site operations. We provide guidance on recognising potential indicators of modern slavery and on the correct procedure for reporting concerns.

By promoting awareness and clear reporting routes, we aim to ensure that everyone associated with our business understands their role in preventing and detecting modern slavery.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to continuous improvement in our efforts to combat modern slavery. This includes monitoring the effectiveness of our controls, reviewing incidents and investigations, and updating our processes where needed. We will conduct an annual review of this Modern Slavery Statement and our related procedures to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, and the nature of our operations and supply chains.

This statement has been approved by the management of Rubbish Clearance Swiss Cottage and will be reviewed and updated each year, or more frequently if required, to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and effective in supporting our commitment to eradicating modern slavery and human trafficking in all areas of our business.