Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
Carpet Cleaning Catford is committed to conducting business in a responsible, ethical, and transparent manner. We recognise our duty to help combat modern slavery and human trafficking in all their forms and to ensure that our operations and supply chains are free from exploitation. This statement sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business and supply chains.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Carpet Cleaning Catford operates as a local carpet and upholstery cleaning service, working with a range of suppliers for cleaning products, equipment, uniforms, and other business services. While our direct operations are relatively small and local, we acknowledge that our supply chains may extend to national and international manufacturers and distributors. We therefore apply robust standards and due diligence processes to manage the risk of modern slavery within our sphere of influence.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
We have a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, and all forms of exploitation. This policy applies to all members of staff, contractors, agency workers, and any third parties who act on our behalf. We expect the same high standards from all our suppliers and business partners.
Any breach or suspected breach of our anti-slavery principles is treated as a serious matter and may result in termination of contracts or working relationships, along with notification to relevant authorities where appropriate.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We aim to work only with suppliers and partners who share our commitment to human rights and fair working practices. As part of our procurement and supplier management processes, we:
Seek assurances from suppliers that they comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws and that they do not engage in modern slavery, human trafficking, or exploitative labour practices. Assess the risk profiles of new and existing suppliers, taking into account the nature of the goods and services supplied, country of origin, and sector-specific risks. Reserve the right to request documentation and evidence to support supplier compliance, including codes of conduct, policy statements, and relevant certifications.
Where proportionate and feasible, we conduct or request audits or assessments of higher-risk suppliers. These audits may include checks on working conditions, recruitment practices, and the use of subcontractors. If concerns are raised, we will work with the supplier to address identified issues within a reasonable timeframe, and where necessary, reconsider the relationship.
Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities
Responsibility for our anti-slavery commitments rests with the senior management of Carpet Cleaning Catford, who oversee the implementation and review of this statement. Managers involved in procurement, recruitment, and operations are expected to understand the risks of modern slavery and to follow our due diligence processes.
We promote awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff through ongoing communication. Team members are encouraged to remain alert to any signs of exploitation in our operations or supply chains and to raise concerns promptly.
Reporting Channels and Raising Concerns
Carpet Cleaning Catford encourages anyone who has concerns about potential modern slavery or human trafficking in connection with our business to report those concerns without delay. This includes employees, workers, suppliers, and members of the public.
Concerns can be raised through internal reporting lines to management or through any other reporting channels that may be made available by our partners or industry bodies. Reports will be treated seriously and, where possible, sensitively and confidentially. We will not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith.
When a concern is reported, we will investigate the matter promptly, take appropriate remedial action where issues are identified, and, where necessary, cooperate with law enforcement or regulatory authorities.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that tackling modern slavery and human trafficking is an ongoing responsibility. Carpet Cleaning Catford is committed to continually improving our policies, procedures, and practices to reduce the risk of exploitation in our business and supply chains.
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement will be reviewed at least once every year by senior management to ensure it remains effective, up to date, and reflective of our operations and risk profile. As part of this review, we will consider feedback from stakeholders, developments in legislation and best practice, and any incidents or concerns reported during the year.
Following each annual review, we will update this statement where appropriate and communicate any significant changes to our staff and relevant suppliers. By maintaining this ongoing review and improvement cycle, Carpet Cleaning Catford aims to uphold the highest ethical standards and contribute to the wider effort to eradicate modern slavery and human trafficking.