Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Introduction

Rubbish Collection Maida Vale is committed to conducting all aspects of its business in an honest, ethical, and responsible manner. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement outlines the steps we take to identify, prevent, and address modern slavery and human trafficking risks within our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers engaged in providing services to or on behalf of our company.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Rubbish Collection Maida Vale provides waste collection and related environmental services to residential and commercial customers in and around Maida Vale. Our supply chains include providers of vehicles, fuel, equipment, uniforms, waste processing facilities, and auxiliary services such as maintenance and cleaning. We recognise that some of these areas, particularly where outsourced labour or international sourcing may be involved, can present heightened risks of modern slavery and human trafficking.

Zero Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

We have a clear zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. No form of exploitation is acceptable within our organisation or our supply chains. We require all those who work for us, or who supply goods or services to us, to share this commitment and to act in accordance with our standards at all times. Any breach of this policy by staff will lead to disciplinary action, which may include dismissal. Any breach by a supplier may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Standards for Employees and Workers

All employees and workers engaged by Rubbish Collection Maida Vale must have the legal right to work and must be employed on terms that comply with applicable employment and labour laws. We do not tolerate withholding of passports or identity documents, involuntary overtime, or any form of coercion, intimidation, or abuse. Our recruitment processes are designed to ensure that employment is freely chosen and that wages, working hours, and conditions are fair and transparent.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We expect our suppliers to uphold the same ethical standards. As part of our due diligence process, suppliers are required to confirm that they do not engage in modern slavery or human trafficking and that they comply with relevant legislation. Where appropriate, we conduct risk-based audits of suppliers, which may include document checks, site visits, and worker interviews to verify labour practices and working conditions. If a supplier is found to present a material risk of modern slavery, we will work with them to implement corrective actions. If they fail to make acceptable improvements within a reasonable period, we will review our commercial relationship and may cease engagement.

Training and Awareness

We provide training and guidance to managers and staff, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management, to ensure they can recognise signs of modern slavery and understand how to respond. Awareness materials are used to reinforce the importance of ethical conduct and to highlight our zero-tolerance stance.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

Rubbish Collection Maida Vale encourages all employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns about modern slavery or human trafficking. Concerns may include suspected exploitation, unsafe or degrading working conditions, or any behaviour inconsistent with this statement. Reports can be made confidentially to line managers, senior management, or via our dedicated reporting channels, which allow individuals to raise issues without fear of victimisation or retaliation. All reports will be treated seriously, investigated promptly, and addressed appropriately, with suitable remedial actions taken where necessary.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We are committed to continual improvement in our efforts to combat modern slavery. This includes regularly reviewing and updating our policies, procedures, and risk assessments. We monitor the effectiveness of our measures through supplier performance reviews, audit outcomes, and feedback from staff and stakeholders. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed annually by senior management to ensure it remains relevant, robust, and aligned with legal and best practice requirements. Any significant changes in our operations or supply chains will prompt an earlier review.

Approval and Responsibility

This Statement has been approved by the leadership of Rubbish Collection Maida Vale, who hold overall responsibility for its implementation and effectiveness. Management at all levels are responsible for ensuring that those reporting to them understand and comply with this Statement and are given appropriate support and resources to do so.