Modern Slavery Statement for Waste Collection Catford

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Waste Collection Catford in accordance with applicable modern slavery and human trafficking legislation. It sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. Waste Collection Catford is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our relationships, and we expect the same high standards from every individual and organisation we work with.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Waste Collection Catford maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. Any form of forced labour, bonded labour, servitude, child labour, or exploitation is fundamentally incompatible with our values and our responsibilities as a business. We will not knowingly engage with or support any supplier, contractor, or partner involved in such practices. If modern slavery is identified within our operations or supply chain, we will act immediately to address the situation, up to and including terminating the relationship and reporting the matter to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our Business and Supply Chains

We provide waste collection and related environmental services in and around Catford. Our operations rely on employees, agency workers, and a range of suppliers, including providers of vehicles, fuel, personal protective equipment, facilities management, technology, and professional services. We recognise that some areas of our supply chain may be at higher risk of labour exploitation, and we focus our efforts proportionately on those areas while upholding consistent minimum standards across all suppliers.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers to operate in full compliance with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. As part of our onboarding process, new suppliers must confirm that they do not engage in modern slavery or human trafficking and that they have appropriate policies and procedures to prevent such practices. Our standard contractual terms reserve the right to audit suppliers and require cooperation with any investigation related to labour conditions or worker welfare.

We use a risk-based approach to supplier audits. Higher-risk suppliers may be asked to provide additional documentation, including details of recruitment practices, working hours, wage records, and use of subcontractors. Where appropriate, we may conduct site visits or request independent verification of practices. If shortcomings are identified, we will engage with the supplier to agree corrective actions and timescales. Failure to meet our expectations or to implement agreed improvements may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Training, Awareness, and Reporting Channels

We are working to build awareness of modern slavery risks throughout Waste Collection Catford. Managers and relevant staff receive guidance on identifying signs of exploitation, such as unusual work patterns, lack of freedom of movement, or signs of coercion. We encourage everyone who works for or with us to remain alert to potential issues and to raise concerns without fear of retaliation.

We provide multiple channels for reporting suspected modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised with a line manager, a designated senior manager, or through our confidential reporting channel. All reports are taken seriously and will be investigated promptly and sensitively. We are committed to protecting those who speak up in good faith, and we will not tolerate victimisation of any person raising a legitimate concern.

Governance and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior management of Waste Collection Catford. They are accountable for ensuring that appropriate policies, procedures, and training are in place and that our commitments are implemented in day-to-day operations.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least annually to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, and our business activities. As part of the review, we will assess the effectiveness of our actions, consider feedback from staff and stakeholders, and identify opportunities for improvement. Updated versions of this statement will be approved by senior management and communicated within the business and to relevant external partners.

Waste Collection Catford remains fully committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking and to promoting safe, fair, and respectful working conditions for everyone in our operations and supply chains.