Modern Slavery Statement for Waste Collection Bermondsey

Waste Collection Bermondsey is committed to conducting its operations ethically and responsibly. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business activities and supply chains, in line with our legal obligations and core values. It applies to all employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers who support our waste collection and related services.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

We have a clear zero-tolerance policy towards any form of modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, servitude, or child labour. We will not knowingly engage with or support any organisation that engages in such practices. All business decisions, including the selection of suppliers, contractors, and partners, must align with this commitment.

Senior management is responsible for promoting a culture where respect for human rights is integral to how we work. Any breach of this policy by employees may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Any identified involvement by suppliers or partners in modern slavery will lead to corrective action, suspension, or termination of our relationship.

Our Supply Chain and Risk Awareness

As a waste collection company, our supply chain includes providers of vehicles, equipment, safety gear, cleaning and maintenance services, and labour providers. We recognise that certain sectors and geographic regions present a higher risk of modern slavery, particularly where low-skilled or temporary labour is common.

We conduct ongoing risk assessments to identify areas where the risk of modern slavery may be heightened. These assessments inform our priorities for supplier checks, audits, and engagement, helping us focus our efforts where they can have the greatest impact.

Supplier Standards and Audits

All new suppliers are expected to confirm their compliance with our modern slavery requirements as a condition of doing business with us. Our standard procurement documentation outlines our expectations on ethical conduct, fair treatment of workers, and compliance with applicable labour laws.

We undertake proportionate due diligence and verification of key suppliers. This may include on-site visits, requests for supporting documentation on labour practices, and discussions with management about how they manage modern slavery risks. Where appropriate, we perform supplier audits to check that working conditions, recruitment practices, and wage arrangements meet our standards.

If an audit or review identifies non-compliance or concerning practices, we work with the supplier to develop remediation plans and timelines. Where necessary, we will suspend or terminate contracts if satisfactory improvements are not made.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions regarding modern slavery in our business or supply chain. Reports may be made to line managers, senior management, or our designated compliance contact, verbally or in writing.

We maintain a whistleblowing culture where people can raise concerns in good faith without fear of retaliation or adverse treatment. All reports are taken seriously and investigated promptly and impartially. Where evidence of modern slavery or related exploitation is found, we will act swiftly to address the issue, which may include engaging with authorities and providing support to affected individuals where appropriate.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities

Key personnel involved in procurement, contract management, and site operations receive training and guidance on modern slavery risks and how to identify warning signs. We promote awareness among our wider workforce so that everyone understands their role in preventing exploitation.

Managers are responsible for ensuring that the people they supervise are aware of this statement and know how to report concerns. Our leadership team oversees the implementation of our modern slavery controls and monitors progress against our objectives.

Monitoring and Annual Review

We are committed to continuous improvement in the way we identify, prevent, and respond to modern slavery risks. We monitor the effectiveness of our actions through reviews of supplier performance, incident reports, audit findings, and feedback from staff and partners.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. As part of this review, we consider any changes in our operations, supply chains, risk profile, and stakeholder expectations. Updates and improvements to our policies, procedures, and training are implemented as needed to strengthen our approach year on year.