Modern Slavery Statement for Rubbish Removal Richmond

Rubbish Removal Richmond is committed to conducting business ethically and responsibly. We recognise that modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation are grave violations of human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement outlines the steps we take to identify, prevent, and address modern slavery risks within our operations and supply chains.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Rubbish Removal Richmond provides waste collection and rubbish removal services across Richmond and surrounding areas. Our operations involve direct employees, contractors, and a range of suppliers, including providers of vehicles, fuel, equipment, uniform, and waste processing facilities. We understand that some parts of our supply chain may present higher risks, particularly where there are complex subcontracting arrangements or where goods and services originate from higher-risk sectors or regions.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking in all forms. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, contractor, or organisation involved in forced labour, servitude, child labour, debt bondage, or any other practice that undermines the fundamental rights and freedoms of workers. This zero-tolerance approach is embedded in our internal policies, supplier expectations, and day-to-day decision-making.

All staff, including management, office personnel, drivers, and site operatives, are expected to uphold this commitment and to challenge any behaviour or arrangement that may conflict with our stance on modern slavery.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

We aim to work only with suppliers and contractors that share our values. As part of our onboarding and ongoing relationship management, we:

Require suppliers to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws, including those relating to modern slavery and human trafficking.

Communicate our zero-tolerance stance and our expectation that suppliers will maintain transparent labour practices, fair wages, safe working conditions, and lawful recruitment processes.

Assess suppliers based on the nature of the goods and services provided, geographical risk, and the use of subcontractors or temporary labour.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

To support our zero-tolerance policy, we undertake proportionate supplier audits and monitoring activities. These may include:

Requesting information on supplier policies, training, and procedures relating to modern slavery and ethical employment.

Reviewing supplier documentation such as contracts, codes of conduct, and workforce terms and conditions where appropriate.

Conducting site visits or remote assessments, particularly where risk indicators are identified, or where suppliers operate in higher-risk sectors.

Where we identify concerns, we will work with the supplier to agree corrective actions and timeframes. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to remedy identified issues, we reserve the right to review, suspend, or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Rubbish Removal Richmond encourages all employees, contractors, and suppliers to report any concerns related to modern slavery, unethical labour practices, or human rights abuses. Concerns can be raised through the following channels:

Directly to a line manager or a member of the management team.

Through our internal reporting procedures, which allow concerns to be raised in confidence and, where requested, anonymously.

All reports will be treated seriously and investigated promptly and sensitively. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. Any substantiated instance of modern slavery or related abuse will lead to appropriate remedial action, which may include engaging with authorities where required by law.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our workforce. Training and guidance are provided to relevant staff to help them understand the signs of exploitation, the importance of responsible procurement, and the procedures for reporting concerns. We continually review our materials to ensure they remain relevant and effective.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. As part of the annual review, we consider:

Changes in our business operations and supply chains.

Findings from supplier audits and any reported concerns.

Feedback from staff, contractors, and business partners.

We are committed to continuous improvement and will update our policies, procedures, and training as necessary to strengthen our approach to preventing modern slavery.

Approval of this Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the senior management of Rubbish Removal Richmond, who take ultimate responsibility for its implementation and ongoing effectiveness.