Modern Slavery Commitment at Waste Removal Tooting
Waste Removal Tooting is firmly committed to operating in an ethical, responsible and transparent manner. We recognise that modern slavery and human trafficking are serious crimes and gross violations of fundamental human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take, and will continue to take, to prevent modern slavery from occurring within our own operations and our supply chains.
We provide waste removal and related services and work with a range of suppliers, including transport providers, equipment suppliers and subcontracted labour. We understand that some areas of the waste and recycling sector can be vulnerable to labour exploitation and we therefore apply robust measures to reduce these risks.
Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery
Waste Removal Tooting has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and child labour. We do not accept any practice that exploits individuals or undermines their freedom, safety or dignity.
Our zero-tolerance stance applies to every person working for or on behalf of Waste Removal Tooting, irrespective of their role or location. This includes employees, agency staff, contractors, subcontractors and all suppliers throughout our value chain. Any confirmed instance of modern slavery connected to our business will lead to decisive action, which may include termination of contracts, reporting to relevant authorities and support for affected individuals.
Responsibilities and Governance
Overall responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior management team of Waste Removal Tooting. Line managers are responsible for implementing relevant procedures within their areas of control, including recruitment, procurement and day-to-day operational management.
Employees are expected to uphold our ethical standards and to raise any concerns about potential exploitation. We ensure that all staff involved in hiring, managing workers or selecting suppliers are aware of our expectations and of the risks associated with modern slavery, particularly in higher risk activities or roles.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We recognise that the greatest risk of modern slavery often lies within extended supply chains. To mitigate this, Waste Removal Tooting carries out proportionate due diligence on suppliers and contractors before entering into new relationships and throughout the life of those relationships.
We assess suppliers based on the nature of the services provided, their location, the use of temporary or migrant labour and other relevant risk indicators. Where we identify a higher risk, we may conduct more detailed checks, request additional documentation or require written confirmation of compliance with our anti-slavery standards.
We reserve the right to audit suppliers, either directly or through third parties, to verify that they are not involved in modern slavery or human trafficking. These audits may include site visits, worker interviews and reviews of employment records, pay practices and working conditions. Any non-compliance identified during such audits must be remedied within an agreed timeframe, failing which Waste Removal Tooting may suspend or terminate the relationship.
Reporting Channels and Protection for Whistleblowers
Waste Removal Tooting encourages a culture of openness where concerns can be raised without fear. We provide clear internal channels through which employees, workers and contractors can report any suspicion or knowledge of modern slavery or unethical labour practices.
Concerns can be reported to a line manager or directly to senior management. Reports may be raised confidentially, and we will treat all such concerns seriously, investigate them promptly and, where necessary, involve relevant authorities. We will not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith, even if it is not ultimately substantiated.
Training and Awareness
We aim to build awareness of modern slavery risks among our workforce. Training and guidance are made available to staff whose roles involve procurement, recruitment or management of workers, helping them recognise warning signs such as withholding of documents, unusual payment arrangements or signs of coercion.
By promoting understanding and vigilance, we strengthen our ability to identify and address potential issues at an early stage.
Monitoring, Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Waste Removal Tooting is committed to continuous improvement in our approach to preventing modern slavery. We monitor the effectiveness of our policies and procedures by reviewing reported concerns, audit findings and feedback from staff and suppliers.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every year by senior management to ensure it remains accurate, effective and aligned with current legislation and best practice. As part of this annual review, we evaluate any changes in our operations or supply chains, update our risk assessments and refine our controls where necessary.
By maintaining a zero-tolerance policy, conducting supplier due diligence and audits, providing clear reporting channels and regularly reviewing our arrangements, Waste Removal Tooting aims to play its part in eliminating modern slavery and protecting the rights and wellbeing of all workers connected to our business.
