Richmond Upon Thames Carpet Cleaning Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Richmond Upon Thames Carpet Cleaning to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to respect and uphold human rights and are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all areas of our business.

Modern slavery is a serious crime and a grave violation of fundamental human rights. It can take many forms, including forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, debt bondage and exploitation through coercion or deception. Richmond Upon Thames Carpet Cleaning is firmly opposed to all forms of modern slavery and is committed to ensuring that none of these practices occur in our business or in the businesses with which we work.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

Richmond Upon Thames Carpet Cleaning operates a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. This policy applies to all people working for or with us in any capacity, including employees, agency workers, contractors, subcontractors, suppliers and business partners.

We expect everyone in our organisation and anyone representing us to share this commitment. Any indications of forced labour, exploitation or abuse will be treated with utmost seriousness. Where we identify breaches, or reasonable suspicions of breaches, we will act promptly. This may include suspending or terminating commercial relationships, reporting concerns to the relevant authorities and taking any other appropriate remedial measures.

Our Supply Chain Standards

Our supply chain encompasses providers of cleaning products, machinery, uniforms, facilities services and other business support services. We are committed to working only with suppliers and partners who uphold strong labour standards, respect human rights and comply with all relevant legislation regarding employment, working hours, health and safety and fair pay.

We require suppliers to confirm that they do not engage in or support modern slavery, and that they in turn require the same of their own suppliers. Contracts and purchasing decisions take into account a supplier’s track record on ethical conduct, transparency and compliance with labour laws.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

To support our zero-tolerance policy, Richmond Upon Thames Carpet Cleaning undertakes proportionate due diligence on existing and new suppliers. This may include assessing company policies, reviewing public information, requesting supporting documentation and seeking assurances on labour practices, recruitment methods and worker welfare.

Where appropriate, we conduct supplier audits to verify compliance with our standards and with applicable laws. These audits may include site visits, management interviews and reviews of employment records and working conditions. Any issues identified during an audit will result in a corrective action plan with clear timelines and follow-up checks. We reserve the right to end relationships with suppliers that fail to resolve serious concerns or demonstrate sufficient commitment to improvement.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Richmond Upon Thames Carpet Cleaning encourages openness and supports anyone who raises genuine concerns in good faith about possible modern slavery or human rights abuses in our operations or supply chains.

Concerns can be raised through internal reporting channels, including line managers or senior management. We will also consider information received from external parties, such as customers, suppliers, workers in the supply chain or members of the public.

All reports will be treated sensitively and investigated promptly. We will protect individuals who raise concerns from retaliation or detrimental treatment. If evidence of modern slavery is found, we will take appropriate action, which may include working with the supplier or relevant organisation to implement corrective measures, reporting issues to the authorities and supporting any affected individuals where possible.

Training and Awareness

We aim to foster a culture where ethical conduct is integral to the way we do business. Key employees involved in procurement, recruitment and site management are made aware of the risks and indicators of modern slavery. They are expected to act with vigilance, challenge questionable practices and report any potential issues through the established channels.

By building awareness within our workforce and among our partners, we aim to reduce the risk of exploitation and strengthen our ability to identify and address problems swiftly.

Monitoring, Governance and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior management of Richmond Upon Thames Carpet Cleaning. They ensure that our policies remain effective, relevant and aligned with legal requirements and best practice.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually, or more frequently if necessary, to reflect changes in legislation, business operations or identified risks. As part of the annual review, we assess the effectiveness of our actions, consider feedback from audits and investigations, and identify opportunities for improvement.

Richmond Upon Thames Carpet Cleaning is committed to continuous improvement in this area and to working collaboratively with employees, suppliers and stakeholders to eliminate modern slavery from our operations and supply chains.