Modern Slavery Statement for Waste Collection Shepherds Bush

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Waste Collection Shepherds Bush to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting all aspects of our business ethically, transparently, and in full compliance with applicable laws on modern slavery and human rights.

Modern slavery takes many forms, including forced labour, debt bondage, servitude, human trafficking, and child labour. We recognise that these abuses can occur in any industry and any country, and we are determined to ensure that our activities and the activities of those who supply us are free from such practices.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We operate a clear and strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This policy applies to every part of Waste Collection Shepherds Bush, including our employees, contractors, agency workers, and business partners.

No form of exploitation is acceptable in our business. We will not knowingly work with any organisation that is involved in modern slavery or that fails to uphold fundamental human rights. Where evidence or credible concerns are identified, we will act swiftly to investigate, take remedial steps, and, where necessary, terminate relationships and report matters to the appropriate authorities.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Audits

Our supply chains include providers of waste collection vehicles and equipment, maintenance services, uniform and safety equipment suppliers, information technology, and various subcontracted services. We recognise the potential risks of labour exploitation within complex and multi-tiered supply chains.

To manage these risks, we are implementing proportionate due diligence and supplier audit processes. New suppliers are assessed against our ethical standards, including their approach to labour rights, working conditions, and modern slavery controls. Where appropriate, we require suppliers to confirm that they have their own modern slavery policies and processes in place and that they comply with all relevant legislation.

We conduct periodic audits and reviews of higher-risk suppliers, which may include requesting documentation, conducting site visits where feasible, and reviewing their own supply chain monitoring activities. Any non-compliance or concerns identified through these audits will result in a corrective action plan being agreed, with clear timelines. Failure to implement corrective actions may lead to suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Training, Awareness, and Employee Responsibilities

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery among our workforce. Relevant staff, particularly those responsible for procurement, contract management, and frontline operations, receive training to help them identify indicators of modern slavery and understand how to respond to concerns.

All employees are required to act in accordance with our zero-tolerance stance. They must report any suspicion of exploitation, whether within our own operations, among our suppliers, or at customer sites. Turning a blind eye to potential abuses is a breach of our values and policies.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Waste Collection Shepherds Bush encourages anyone with concerns about modern slavery connected to our business to speak up. Employees can report concerns through their line manager, the Human Resources team, or our designated compliance contact. We also maintain a confidential whistleblowing channel that allows individuals to raise issues without fear of retaliation.

We treat all reports seriously and investigate promptly, respecting confidentiality as far as possible. No person who raises a concern in good faith will suffer any form of victimisation or disadvantage for doing so. Where we identify modern slavery or related abuses, we will work to support affected individuals, engage with stakeholders, and cooperate with law enforcement and regulatory bodies.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We understand that tackling modern slavery requires ongoing vigilance and continuous improvement. We regularly review our policies, procedures, and risk assessments to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, and the structure of our business and supply chains.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed and updated on an annual basis by our senior management team. As part of each review, we evaluate the effectiveness of our actions, including supplier audits, training, and reporting mechanisms. We also identify opportunities to strengthen our controls, deepen engagement with suppliers, and enhance protection for vulnerable workers.

By publishing this Modern Slavery Statement, Waste Collection Shepherds Bush reaffirms its commitment to acting ethically, preventing exploitation, and promoting respect for human rights across all aspects of our operations and supply chains.