Modern Slavery Statement for Rubbish Collection Shoreditch

Rubbish Collection Shoreditch is committed to conducting all aspects of our operations in a responsible and ethical manner. This Modern Slavery Statement outlines the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and exploitation within our own business and throughout our supply chains. It is made in respect of the current financial year and applies to all employees, contractors, and suppliers associated with our rubbish collection and related environmental services in Shoreditch and surrounding areas.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

We operate a clear and uncompromising zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery in all its forms. This policy is endorsed by senior management and is reflected in our internal procedures, procurement practices and day-to-day decision-making. No commercial objective, operational pressure or cost consideration will ever justify the use, endorsement or disregard of exploitative labour practices. All staff are expected to act with integrity and to support our commitment to human rights and fair working conditions.

We clearly communicate this zero-tolerance stance to all new employees during induction, and to existing staff through ongoing training and updates. Our employment policies require fair pay, lawful working hours, the right to work, freedom of movement and the right to leave employment upon reasonable notice, ensuring that no one is forced, coerced or deceived into working for us.

Our Supply Chain and Supplier Audits

As a waste management and rubbish collection provider, our supply chain includes suppliers of vehicles, equipment, uniforms, cleaning materials, disposal facilities and labour services. We recognise that some areas of our supply chain may present a higher risk of modern slavery and we focus our oversight activities accordingly.

All key suppliers are required to acknowledge and comply with our Supplier Code of Conduct, which prohibits forced labour, child labour, human trafficking, and any form of exploitation. Prior to engagement, we seek information on suppliers practices, including their own modern slavery measures, and consider their answers as part of our selection criteria.

We conduct proportionate supplier audits, either remotely or on site where appropriate, to verify compliance with labour and human rights standards. These audits may involve reviewing documentation, assessing working conditions and interviewing relevant personnel. Where non-compliance or areas of concern are identified, we expect timely corrective action. In cases of serious or persistent breaches, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We actively encourage employees, contractors, suppliers and members of the public to report any concerns relating to modern slavery or suspected exploitation connected to our operations or supply chains. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting channels, directly to line managers, senior management or designated compliance contacts. We are committed to handling all reports seriously, promptly and sensitively.

We operate a whistleblowing approach that protects anyone who raises a concern in good faith from victimisation or retaliation. Reports can be made confidentially, and we will investigate each matter thoroughly, taking appropriate remedial action where necessary. If we identify instances of modern slavery, we will also consider reporting to the relevant authorities and working with external agencies to support affected individuals.

Training, Awareness and Continuous Improvement

We provide targeted training to managers and staff in roles that have direct responsibility for procurement, supplier relationships and workforce management. This training covers the recognition of potential indicators of modern slavery, appropriate actions to take, and use of the reporting channels available. We also seek to build awareness across the wider workforce by sharing clear guidance and expectations.

We remain committed to improving our processes over time. We review our risk assessments, supplier due diligence methods and audit practices on an ongoing basis, so that we can respond to changes in our operations and in the external risk environment.

Annual Review and Governance

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually by senior management to ensure it remains accurate, effective and aligned with legal and regulatory requirements. As part of the annual review, we evaluate the effectiveness of our zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, training programmes and reporting channels, and identify areas where additional action may be required.

The updated statement is approved at leadership level and communicated internally to staff and externally to stakeholders and suppliers. Through this continuous review process, Rubbish Collection Shoreditch reaffirms its commitment to preventing modern slavery and promoting safe, fair and respectful working conditions across all aspects of our business and supply chains.