Rubbish Removal Swiss Cottage Modern Slavery Statement

Rubbish Removal Swiss Cottage is firmly committed to conducting all aspects of our waste collection and disposal services in a manner that respects human rights and upholds the highest ethical standards. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business operations and supply chains.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, servitude, and human trafficking. We do not accept, condone, or ignore any practice that undermines the freedom, dignity, or safety of individuals involved in our operations or in the provision of goods and services to our business.

This commitment is integral to our core values. All directors, managers, employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers are expected to support and uphold this policy. Any breach is treated as a serious misconduct issue and may result in termination of contracts or employment, and, where appropriate, referral to law enforcement authorities.

Our Operations and Supply Chain

Rubbish Removal Swiss Cottage operates in the waste removal and environmental services sector. Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles and equipment, safety clothing, fuel, maintenance services, and subcontracted waste handling facilities. We recognise that modern slavery risks may exist at various points in these supply chains, particularly where labour intensive or lower skilled work is involved.

We are committed to working only with suppliers and partners who share our values and can demonstrate robust labour and human rights practices. We continually strive to improve our understanding of potential risks and to embed effective controls across our operations.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We conduct due diligence on new suppliers before entering into any agreement, assessing factors such as their labour practices, health and safety standards, and their own approach to modern slavery prevention. Our contractual arrangements require suppliers to comply with all applicable labour and human rights laws and to refrain from any form of modern slavery.

Where appropriate, we undertake supplier audits, which may include site visits, document reviews, and discussions with management and workers. These audits are designed to verify compliance with legal requirements and our ethical standards. If concerns arise, we work with the supplier to agree corrective actions and a clear timeline for improvement. Persistent or serious non-compliance can lead to the suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone connected with Rubbish Removal Swiss Cottage, including employees, subcontractors, suppliers, and members of the public, to report any concerns relating to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised directly with line managers, senior management, or the designated compliance contact within the company.

Reports may be made confidentially, and we do not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who raise genuine concerns in good faith. All reports will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and addressed appropriately. Where necessary, we will cooperate fully with law enforcement and regulatory bodies.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We aim to ensure that relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and site operations, understand the signs of modern slavery and know how to respond to potential issues. Training and guidance are provided so that employees can identify risk indicators, engage with suppliers on these topics, and escalate concerns through the correct channels.

We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires constant vigilance and improvement. We regularly review our internal procedures to strengthen risk assessment, supplier engagement, and monitoring activities, adapting them as legislation, industry best practice, and our own understanding evolve.

Annual Review and Accountability

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every twelve months by the senior management of Rubbish Removal Swiss Cottage. The review considers any incidents reported, audit findings, changes in our operations or supply chains, and developments in relevant law or guidance. Where necessary, we update our policies, procedures, and training programmes to enhance effectiveness.

Responsibility for implementing and overseeing this statement rests with our senior management team, who are accountable for ensuring that modern slavery risks are identified, addressed, and reported. By maintaining clear accountability, robust controls, and transparent reporting, Rubbish Removal Swiss Cottage seeks to play an active role in eliminating modern slavery from our business and our wider supply chain.