Rubbish Collection Kennington Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Rubbish Collection Kennington takes to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and exploitation in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to conduct business ethically and transparently, and to respect the fundamental rights and freedoms of every individual involved in the delivery of our services.

Our business provides waste collection and related services to households, businesses and organisations in and around Kennington. In delivering these services, we rely on employees, contractors and a range of suppliers, including providers of vehicles, equipment, uniforms, recycling facilities and support services. We are committed to ensuring that modern slavery has no place in any part of this network.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

Rubbish Collection Kennington adopts a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to our own business activities and to everyone we work with. We expect our employees, agency staff, contractors, and suppliers to act with integrity and to comply with all applicable laws relating to labour, employment and human rights.

No form of forced, bonded or involuntary labour is tolerated. We do not permit employment of individuals under the legal minimum age for work, and we oppose any practices that restrict freedom of movement, withhold identity documents, or coerce people through debt or threats. Where we identify risks or breaches, we will act swiftly to remedy the situation, which may include terminating contracts, reporting to relevant authorities and supporting affected individuals to access help.

Supplier Standards and Audits

Our commitment extends throughout our supply chain. We expect all suppliers to uphold high ethical standards, to comply with all anti-slavery and human trafficking legislation, and to maintain safe, fair working conditions. New suppliers are assessed for their commitment to ethical labour practices, and we give preference to partners who demonstrate strong governance and transparency.

We conduct proportionate due diligence on suppliers according to the nature of the goods or services they provide and the geographic or sectoral risks involved. This may include questionnaires, requests for policy documentation, and verification of labour standards. For higher-risk areas, we may conduct audits, either directly or through third parties, to review working conditions, recruitment practices, and wage and hour records.

Where an audit or assessment identifies concerns, we will work with the supplier to develop and implement corrective action plans with clear timeframes. If the supplier fails to make adequate and timely improvements, we may suspend or end the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Employee Awareness

We encourage a culture in which concerns about modern slavery, exploitation or unethical conduct can be raised safely and without fear of reprisal. Employees, contractors and suppliers are required to report any suspected instances of modern slavery or associated human rights abuses that they encounter in connection with our operations or supply chains.

Concerns can be raised with line managers, senior management or through dedicated internal reporting channels. All reports are taken seriously, handled sensitively and, where possible, treated confidentially. Reports will be investigated promptly, and appropriate actions will be taken, which may involve engagement with law enforcement or specialist support organisations where necessary.

We provide information and guidance to our staff to help them recognise the signs of modern slavery and to understand how to report concerns. This includes awareness-raising during induction and periodic reminders in internal communications and meetings.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Rubbish Collection Kennington is committed to continuous improvement in our approach to tackling modern slavery. We recognise that risks can evolve over time and that our processes must adapt accordingly. We monitor developments in legislation, industry guidance and best practice to strengthen our systems and controls.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by our leadership team. As part of that review, we assess the effectiveness of our actions, including our supplier due diligence, audits, staff awareness measures and incident response. Where we identify opportunities to improve, we update our policies, procedures and training accordingly.

By publishing this Statement, Rubbish Collection Kennington reaffirms its commitment to conducting business responsibly, respecting human rights, and working with our partners to eradicate modern slavery in all its forms from our operations and supply chains.