Modern Slavery Commitment at Waste Removal Richmond upon Thames

Waste Removal Richmond upon Thames is firmly committed to conducting its business ethically, responsibly, and in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations relating to modern slavery and human trafficking. This Modern Slavery Statement outlines the steps we take to prevent modern slavery in our own operations and throughout our supply chains.

Modern slavery is a serious crime and a gross violation of fundamental human rights. It can take many forms, including forced labour, bonded labour, servitude, human trafficking, and child labour. We recognise that the waste management sector can be vulnerable to exploitation through temporary labour, subcontracting, and complex supply chains, and we are determined to actively guard against these risks.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to all aspects of our business, whether carried out by our employees, agency workers, contractors, or suppliers. No form of forced, compulsory, or coerced labour is acceptable under any circumstances.

All employees and managers are expected to act with integrity and to uphold our values of fairness, respect, and transparency. Any action that could facilitate, enable, or ignore modern slavery is strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal and referral to the relevant authorities.

Risk Management and Due Diligence

We continually assess the risk of modern slavery within our business and supply chains, with particular attention to areas that may rely on low-paid, temporary, or migrant labour. Our due diligence processes include checks on labour providers, subcontractors, and other business partners who support our waste collection, transportation, sorting, and disposal activities.

We require confirmation from key suppliers that they comply with all modern slavery and human trafficking legislation relevant to their operations. Where appropriate, we seek assurances on working conditions, wage practices, and the absence of recruitment fees or practices that could indicate exploitation.

Supplier Standards and Audits

Our suppliers and contractors are expected to uphold the same standards that we apply to our own operations. We aim to work only with organisations that share our commitment to eliminating modern slavery and protecting workers rights.

We may conduct audits and assessments of selected suppliers, particularly in higher risk categories such as labour agencies, subcontracted site services, and providers involved in manual sorting or handling of waste. These audits can include reviews of employment contracts, right to work documentation, working hours and pay records, and health and safety arrangements.

Where we identify concerns or non-compliance, we will engage with the supplier to agree corrective actions within a defined timeframe. If issues are not resolved to our satisfaction, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

We encourage anyone who works for or with Waste Removal Richmond upon Thames to speak up about any concerns relating to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised with a line manager, a senior manager, or a designated member of the management team responsible for compliance and human resources.

We treat all reports seriously and as confidentially as practicable. Reports can be made without fear of retaliation, and we will investigate promptly and take appropriate action where issues are identified. We also encourage employees to stay alert to signs of exploitation, such as workers who appear frightened, indebted, controlled by others, or unaware of their employment terms.

Training and Awareness

Where relevant to their role, employees and managers receive guidance on recognising indicators of modern slavery and how to respond appropriately. We promote awareness of this Statement as part of our induction processes and ongoing communication with staff and key suppliers.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

This Modern Slavery Statement is approved by the senior management of Waste Removal Richmond upon Thames, who are responsible for overseeing its implementation and effectiveness. We monitor our practices, supplier performance, and any reported concerns to ensure continuous improvement.

We review this Statement at least once every year, and more frequently if required by changes in legislation, our operations, or identified risks. Updates will reflect any enhancements to our policies, due diligence processes, and supplier management practices, so that our approach to tackling modern slavery remains robust, effective, and aligned with best practice.

This Statement reflects the position of Waste Removal Richmond upon Thames for the current financial year and will be renewed and republished following each annual review.