Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Rubbish Collection Merton is committed to conducting all aspects of its business in an ethical and responsible manner. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps we take to identify, prevent, and address modern slavery and human trafficking within our own operations and our supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to respect human rights and to take a clear stand against any form of exploitation.

Modern slavery is a serious crime and a grave violation of fundamental human rights. It can take many forms, including slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking. Rubbish Collection Merton will not tolerate any form of modern slavery in our services, our workforce, or any part of our supply chain.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

We operate a zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. This policy applies to all employees, workers, agency staff, contractors, suppliers, and any other business partners who act on our behalf. We expect everyone connected with Rubbish Collection Merton to uphold the highest standards of integrity and to comply fully with all relevant legislation.

Our contracts and purchasing practices are designed to reinforce our zero-tolerance approach. We will not knowingly work with any organisation that is involved in, or fails to take adequate steps to prevent, modern slavery. Where credible concerns arise, we will investigate and take appropriate action, which may include terminating relationships and reporting concerns to the relevant authorities.

Assessing Risk in Our Operations and Supply Chains

Rubbish Collection Merton provides waste and recycling services that rely on a broad network of suppliers, including providers of vehicles, equipment, personal protective equipment, and outsourced labour. We recognise that certain sectors and geographies may carry higher risks of labour exploitation.

To address these risks, we review the nature of the goods and services we procure and consider factors such as country of origin, type of work undertaken, and the use of temporary or migrant labour. Where we identify a higher risk, we apply enhanced scrutiny and may seek additional assurances or documentation from our suppliers.

Supplier Standards and Audit Measures

We expect our suppliers to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. Supplier selection and ongoing management processes include consideration of ethical sourcing, labour standards, and compliance with applicable laws.

Rubbish Collection Merton may conduct supplier audits or request independent assessments to verify compliance with our standards. Audits may include site visits, interviews with workers where appropriate, and reviews of employment records and policies. Suppliers are required to cooperate fully with reasonable audit requests. Failure to meet our expectations or refusal to cooperate will be treated seriously and may result in corrective action, suspension, or termination of contracts.

Training, Awareness, and Reporting Channels

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff and key suppliers. Relevant employees receive training on recognising indicators of exploitation, understanding our policies, and using the reporting channels available to them. We encourage an open culture where concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation.

Employees, agency workers, and suppliers are encouraged to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery or human trafficking within our operations or supply chains. Concerns can be raised with line managers, senior management, or through our confidential reporting routes. All reports will be investigated promptly, handled sensitively, and, where appropriate, escalated to external authorities. We will not tolerate victimisation of any person who raises a concern in good faith.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Rubbish Collection Merton is committed to continuous improvement in our approach to preventing modern slavery. We regularly review our policies, risk assessments, and due diligence practices to ensure they remain effective and proportionate to the nature of our business and supply chains.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed annually by our leadership team. The review considers any incidents reported, audit findings, legal developments, and feedback from stakeholders. Where needed, we will update our procedures, strengthen supplier requirements, or introduce additional training to enhance our safeguards.

This statement has been approved on behalf of Rubbish Collection Merton and represents our ongoing commitment to combat modern slavery and human trafficking in all areas of our business.