Waste Removal Lewisham Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Waste Removal Lewisham has taken, and is continuing to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious global issue that can occur in many forms, including forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, and child labour. We are fully committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Waste Removal Lewisham maintains a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This commitment applies to every part of our business, from our direct workforce to the contractors and suppliers who support our services. We expect the same high standards from all parties we work with and will not knowingly engage with any organisation that is involved in, or turns a blind eye to, modern slavery practices.

All employees, managers, and partners are required to act in accordance with this policy. Any behaviour or practice that contradicts our zero-tolerance stance is considered a serious breach of our ethical and contractual obligations and may result in disciplinary or commercial consequences, including termination of employment or contracts.

Our Supply Chain and Supplier Audits

Our supply chains include providers of waste collection equipment, vehicle maintenance services, personal protective equipment, facilities services, and other business support functions. We recognise that the risk of modern slavery can be higher in certain sectors and geographies, and we assess these risks when engaging and reviewing suppliers.

We carry out proportionate due diligence on new and existing suppliers to ensure that they operate in line with our standards. This may include requesting evidence of their own modern slavery policies, obtaining written confirmations regarding labour practices, and seeking assurance on how they manage and monitor their own supply chains.

Where appropriate, we conduct or commission supplier audits to review working conditions, recruitment processes, and compliance with labour laws. If concerns are identified, we work with the supplier to implement corrective actions within a clearly defined timeframe. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to meet our standards, we reserve the right to suspend or end the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Waste Removal Lewisham encourages a culture in which concerns can be raised openly and without fear of retaliation. All employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery or human trafficking within our business or supply chains.

Concerns can be raised in person with line managers, through our internal reporting procedures, or directly to senior management. Reports may be made confidentially, and we will treat all information sensitively. We will investigate every report promptly and thoroughly, taking appropriate action to address any confirmed issue and to prevent recurrence.

We strictly prohibit victimisation of any person who raises a genuine concern relating to modern slavery. Any attempt to intimidate or retaliate against an individual for speaking up will itself be treated as a serious disciplinary matter.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We provide appropriate training and guidance to relevant staff so they can identify the signs of modern slavery, understand our policies, and know how to report concerns. Awareness of modern slavery risks is integrated into our procurement practices, contract management, and health and safety briefings where relevant.

We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach. We regularly review our procedures, supplier requirements, and staff guidance to reflect evolving best practice, changes in legislation, and lessons learned from any issues that arise.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery controls sits with the senior management team at Waste Removal Lewisham. They monitor the effectiveness of our policies and procedures, review reported concerns, and ensure that necessary improvements are implemented.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with our business activities and legal obligations. As part of the annual review, we assess any incidents, audit findings, and stakeholder feedback, and we update our processes where needed to strengthen the prevention of modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains.