Waste Removal Lambeth Modern Slavery Statement
Waste Removal Lambeth is committed to conducting all aspects of its operations in an ethical and responsible manner. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and in our supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious global issue and we are determined to play our part in eradicating it.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
We operate a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced or compulsory labour, and child labour. This applies to all aspects of our operations, including waste collection, recycling, disposal services, and any ancillary activities. We expect the same high standards from everyone we work with, including employees, agency staff, contractors, and suppliers.
Any indication that modern slavery may be taking place in connection with our business is treated with the utmost seriousness. Confirmed breaches of this policy may result in termination of employment, contracts, or commercial relationships, and in appropriate cases will be reported to the relevant authorities.
Our Supply Chain and Supplier Standards
Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles, equipment, fuel, uniforms, subcontracted waste services, and office support services. We are committed to working only with suppliers who share our values and demonstrate a responsible approach to labour and human rights.
We communicate our zero-tolerance stance to all key suppliers and require them to comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights legislation. We expect suppliers to maintain safe working conditions, fair wages and working hours, and lawful recruitment practices, and to prohibit any form of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
To help ensure that modern slavery does not occur within our supply chains, we carry out proportionate due diligence on new and existing suppliers. This may include pre-qualification questionnaires, requests for policy documentation, and discussions about labour practices during supplier onboarding.
Where risk is identified or where suppliers operate in sectors or regions with greater vulnerability to modern slavery, we may undertake more detailed checks. These can include site visits, audits of employment records, and interviews with workers where appropriate. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to demonstrate adequate safeguards, we will consider corrective action, up to and including ending the relationship.
Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with senior management, who ensure that our policies and procedures are implemented across the business. Line managers are responsible for promoting awareness of this statement and ensuring that staff understand how to identify and report concerns.
We provide relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and people management, with guidance on the risks of modern slavery and on how to respond to potential issues. We aim to foster a culture where ethical conduct and respect for human rights are core expectations for all employees.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We encourage anyone connected to our business, including employees, temporary workers, suppliers, and subcontractors, to report any concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices as soon as they arise. Concerns can be raised directly with line managers, senior management, or through our internal whistleblowing channels.
Reports may be made confidentially and will be handled sensitively and promptly. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. All reports are reviewed, investigated where appropriate, and, if necessary, escalated to external authorities.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that the risks of modern slavery can change over time and that our response must be dynamic and continually improving. We therefore review this Modern Slavery Statement and the effectiveness of our related policies and procedures at least once every year.
As part of the annual review, we consider feedback from staff, suppliers, and other stakeholders, evaluate any incidents or concerns raised, and assess evolving legal and best practice standards. Where necessary, we update our processes, training, and supplier engagement activities to strengthen our approach.
This Statement reflects our ongoing commitment to act ethically, to respect human rights, and to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking have no place in our operations or supply chains.
