Modern Slavery Statement for Waste Collection Kingston upon Thames

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Waste Collection Kingston upon Thames to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to respect human rights and to act with integrity and transparency in all business dealings.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Waste Collection Kingston upon Thames operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. We are committed to ensuring that our services, including refuse collection, recycling, and related environmental operations, are delivered in a way that upholds the dignity and rights of every individual. No form of exploitation is acceptable within our organisation or in any business relationship we enter into.

All employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers are expected to act ethically, comply with all relevant laws, and support our efforts to identify, prevent, and eliminate modern slavery risks. Any breach of this policy may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts, and, where appropriate, reporting to the relevant authorities.

Governance, Responsibility and Training

Responsibility for overseeing modern slavery risks rests with our senior management team. They ensure that appropriate policies, procedures, and monitoring mechanisms are in place and that our commitments are embedded throughout the business. Managers are required to promote awareness of this statement and to champion a culture of openness and accountability.

We provide training and guidance to employees, especially those involved in procurement, contract management, and frontline supervision, so that they can recognise indicators of modern slavery and know how to respond if concerns arise. Training is reviewed and updated periodically to reflect evolving risks and legislation.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles, fuel, equipment, personal protective clothing, facilities management, and outsourced labour. We expect all suppliers to uphold the same standards of ethical conduct that we apply to ourselves.

Before engaging new suppliers, we conduct due diligence checks that may include questionnaires about labour practices, verification of legal compliance, and assessment of their own supply chain controls. Existing suppliers are required to confirm adherence to our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery and to maintain transparent records related to employment and working conditions.

We carry out risk-based supplier audits to verify compliance. These audits may involve site visits, document reviews, and interviews with personnel. Where non-compliance or heightened risk is identified, we work with suppliers on corrective action plans. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to address serious concerns, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone who has concerns about potential modern slavery, whether within Waste Collection Kingston upon Thames or in our supply chain, to report them without delay. Concerns can be raised with line managers, senior management, or through our whistleblowing channels. Reports may be made confidentially, and we will take all reasonable steps to protect those who raise concerns in good faith from victimisation or retaliation.

All reports are treated seriously and investigated promptly. Where necessary, we will cooperate with law enforcement and regulatory bodies. Outcomes of investigations are reviewed to identify opportunities to strengthen our controls and prevent recurrence.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process requiring vigilance and continuous improvement. We regularly review our risk assessments, due diligence methods, and training materials to ensure they remain effective and proportionate to the risks we face.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed and approved by our senior management team on an annual basis. As part of that review, we assess the effectiveness of our actions, consider feedback from stakeholders, evaluate audit findings, and update our approach where necessary. The updated statement is then communicated across the organisation and made available to interested parties.

By maintaining a clear zero-tolerance policy, robust supplier oversight, accessible reporting channels, and a structured annual review, Waste Collection Kingston upon Thames aims to play a responsible role in combating modern slavery and supporting fair and safe working conditions for all.