Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the approach of Waste Collection Wandsworth to preventing modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and exploitation in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to act ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implement effective controls to ensure that slavery and human trafficking are not taking place.

Our Organisation and Supply Chain

Waste Collection Wandsworth provides waste collection, recycling and related environmental services within the Wandsworth area. Our activities involve direct employment of staff, use of temporary labour, and engagement of a range of suppliers and contractors, including those providing vehicles, equipment, personal protective equipment, facilities management, technology, and specialist subcontracted services.

We understand that certain parts of our supply chain, including waste sorting, transport and the manufacturing of uniforms and equipment, may present higher risks of labour exploitation. We are committed to identifying and addressing these risks through proactive engagement, due diligence and continuous improvement.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

Waste Collection Wandsworth has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking in any form. We do not tolerate forced, bonded or involuntary labour, child labour, deceptive recruitment practices, or any abuse or exploitation of workers.

This policy applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, suppliers and any other parties acting on our behalf. We expect our partners to uphold the same high standards and to ensure that modern slavery is not present anywhere in the services or goods they provide to us.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We are strengthening our procurement and supplier management processes to embed modern slavery prevention. Our approach includes requiring key suppliers and contractors to confirm compliance with applicable labour, human rights and modern slavery legislation as a condition of doing business with us.

Where appropriate, we conduct risk-based supplier assessments and audits focused on labour conditions, recruitment practices, worker documentation, pay and working hours, and health and safety arrangements. These audits may involve desk-based reviews, site visits, worker interviews and requests for supporting records. If any non-compliance or cause for concern is identified, we require the supplier to implement a corrective action plan within a defined timescale and we monitor progress closely.

Where suppliers are unwilling or unable to address serious issues, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage all employees, contractors, suppliers and members of the public to report any concerns about possible modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to Waste Collection Wandsworth. Concerns can be raised via line managers, senior management, our HR team or our whistleblowing channels.

Reports can be made confidentially, and individuals raising concerns in good faith will not suffer any form of retaliation or detriment. All reports are taken seriously and will be investigated promptly, with appropriate remedial action taken where required. Where criminal activity is suspected, we will cooperate fully with law enforcement and relevant authorities.

Training, Awareness and Continuous Improvement

We are working to increase awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, recruitment and front-line operations. Training covers recognising warning signs, understanding reporting routes, and the responsibilities everyone has to help prevent exploitation.

We also engage with key suppliers to raise awareness of our expectations and to encourage them to develop robust policies and procedures within their own operations and supply chains.

Monitoring and Annual Review

Waste Collection Wandsworth is committed to reviewing and improving our approach to modern slavery on an ongoing basis. We monitor the effectiveness of our measures by tracking supplier audit findings, reported concerns, corrective actions and feedback from stakeholders.

This Statement will be reviewed, updated and approved by senior management on an annual basis, or sooner if significant changes occur in our operations, risk profile or legal obligations. The review will evaluate progress made, lessons learned and further steps to strengthen our controls and support ethical labour standards throughout our business and supply chain.