Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Waste Removal Kennington in respect of our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting our business ethically, transparently and in full compliance with all applicable laws, including those aimed at preventing modern slavery and human trafficking. This statement explains the steps we take to identify, prevent and address modern slavery risks across our activities.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Waste Removal Kennington provides waste collection, disposal and recycling services to residential, commercial and industrial customers. Our operations rely on a range of suppliers and contractors, including waste transfer facilities, recycling partners, equipment providers, vehicle maintenance services, and labour and staffing firms. We recognise that some sectors and regions can present a higher risk of labour exploitation, and we seek to manage these risks through robust due diligence and ongoing monitoring.
Zero Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery
We have a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, debt bondage, servitude and human trafficking. This applies to our own operations, our employees, temporary workers and all parties in our supply chains. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious misconduct issue and may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal, termination of contracts and reporting to the relevant authorities where appropriate.
All managers are responsible for promoting a culture in which exploitation is unacceptable and in which respect for human rights and fair working conditions is embedded in everyday decision-making. We expect everyone representing Waste Removal Kennington to act with integrity and to speak up if they suspect any form of modern slavery.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers, contractors and business partners to uphold equivalent standards. Our procurement processes require suppliers to confirm that they comply with modern slavery legislation and do not engage in practices that exploit workers or violate human rights. Where appropriate, we incorporate contractual clauses requiring compliance with modern slavery laws and our own anti-slavery expectations.
We assess suppliers based on the nature of the goods and services they provide, their location, labour practices and the structure of their own supply chains. Higher-risk suppliers may be subject to more detailed due diligence and verification checks. We reserve the right to conduct audits, request evidence of compliance and visit supplier premises where required. If a supplier fails to meet our standards, we will work with them to develop corrective actions within defined timeframes. Persistent non-compliance or refusal to cooperate may lead to suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Protection for Whistleblowers
We encourage employees, workers, contractors and any third parties who have concerns about possible modern slavery or unethical labour practices in our operations or supply chains to report them as soon as possible. Concerns can be raised directly with line managers, senior management or through designated internal reporting channels. Reports may be made confidentially, and information will be handled sensitively and only shared with those who need to know in order to investigate and respond.
We do not tolerate any retaliation or detrimental treatment against individuals who raise concerns in good faith, even if those concerns are ultimately not substantiated. Retaliation itself will be treated as a disciplinary matter. We are committed to investigating all reports promptly, taking action where wrongdoing is identified and, where necessary, engaging with authorities and expert organisations.
Training, Awareness and Continuous Improvement
We provide appropriate training and guidance for relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management and front-line operations. Training covers the identification of modern slavery risk indicators, the correct escalation routes for concerns and our expectations of suppliers. We strive to embed awareness of modern slavery into our broader health, safety and ethical conduct programmes.
We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility that requires continuous improvement. We monitor changes in legislation, industry guidance and best practice to strengthen our approach over time and to ensure that our processes remain effective and proportionate.
Monitoring, Governance and Annual Review
Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery commitments rests with the senior management of Waste Removal Kennington, who receive information on risks, incidents and improvement actions. We review our policies, supplier controls and reporting channels regularly, taking into account feedback from staff, suppliers and other stakeholders.
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed at least once every twelve months. As part of the annual review, we assess the effectiveness of our measures, consider any incidents or concerns raised during the year and identify further steps to enhance prevention, detection and remediation of modern slavery risks. Any significant changes to our processes or priorities will be reflected in updated versions of this statement.
By maintaining a zero-tolerance stance, strengthening supplier due diligence, supporting transparent reporting and committing to annual review, Waste Removal Kennington aims to play its part in helping to eradicate modern slavery and human trafficking from our industry and wider society.
