Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Rubbish Collection Watford is committed to conducting business in an ethical, transparent, and responsible manner. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to safeguard the rights and dignity of all individuals who may be affected by our activities.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

We have a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour that is exploitative or unlawful, human trafficking, and any form of servitude. This applies to every part of our operations and to all third parties working with us. Every employee, contractor, and supplier is expected to uphold the highest standards of human rights and labour practices.

Our management team is responsible for promoting a culture where exploitation is never tolerated. Any indication of modern slavery is treated seriously and investigated promptly. If a breach is identified, we will act immediately, which may include suspension or termination of contracts, reporting to relevant authorities, and taking remedial steps to protect affected individuals.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our services rely on a network of suppliers and subcontractors that provide equipment, vehicles, waste processing, and related services. We are committed to ensuring that modern slavery is not present anywhere in this supply chain. We set clear expectations for all suppliers through our purchasing terms and conditions, which require adherence to applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws.

We conduct risk-based due diligence on suppliers, focusing on those operating in sectors or regions with a higher risk of labour exploitation. This due diligence may include pre-qualification questionnaires, requests for information on labour practices, and assessment of existing policies and training on modern slavery.

Where appropriate, we carry out audits of suppliers to verify compliance with our standards. These audits may be conducted by our own team or by independent third parties. Any non-compliance identified during audits must be addressed through corrective action plans with clear timelines. Continued non-compliance may lead to a review or termination of the business relationship.

Employee Awareness, Training, and Responsibilities

All employees are expected to act ethically and to support our efforts to prevent modern slavery. We provide suitable information and, where relevant, training to employees whose roles involve procurement, supplier management, or supervision of contractors. This training covers recognising signs of modern slavery, understanding our policies, and knowing how to report concerns.

Managers are responsible for ensuring that teams understand and follow this Statement and related procedures. We also expect agency workers, subcontractors, and representatives acting on our behalf to comply with the same standards and to cooperate fully with any investigations.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

We encourage anyone who has concerns about potential modern slavery in our operations or supply chain to report these concerns at the earliest opportunity. Employees may raise issues with their line manager, a senior manager, or our dedicated reporting contact within the business. Concerns can be raised confidentially, and we will take all reports seriously.

We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. Reports will be investigated promptly and sensitively, with appropriate measures taken to protect those who may be at risk. Where necessary, we will work with law enforcement, regulatory bodies, and specialist organisations to support any investigations and to provide protection and support to affected individuals.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We are committed to continually improving our approach to identifying, preventing, and addressing modern slavery risks. This includes keeping our policies, procedures, and training under regular review to ensure they remain effective and reflect current best practice.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed and approved by the leadership of Rubbish Collection Watford on an annual basis, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation or business operations. As part of each review, we assess the effectiveness of our actions, consider feedback from stakeholders, and identify further steps to strengthen our controls and oversight.

By maintaining a clear zero-tolerance stance, actively monitoring our supply chains, providing channels for reporting concerns, and reviewing our practices each year, Rubbish Collection Watford aims to play a responsible role in the wider effort to eliminate modern slavery and human trafficking.