Modern Slavery and Human Rights Statement

Waste Collection Shoreditch is committed to operating responsibly, ethically, and transparently in all aspects of our waste management and recycling services. We recognise that modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation are severe violations of fundamental human rights, and we are dedicated to preventing these abuses within our own operations and across our supply chains.

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we are taking to identify, prevent, and address the risks of modern slavery and human trafficking in connection with our business.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

We maintain a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking in any form. This applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, suppliers, and other business partners. We do not accept any practices that involve forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, or the restriction of personal freedom for the purpose of labour or services.

All members of our team are expected to act with integrity and to uphold our ethical standards. Breaches of this policy by employees may lead to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Where suppliers or contractors are found to be in breach of our standards, we will take appropriate measures, which may include suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles, equipment, uniforms, personal protective equipment, cleaning products, and outsourced services. We expect all suppliers to share our commitment to combating modern slavery and to comply with all relevant laws and regulations relating to labour, human rights, and employment practices.

We are working to embed modern slavery prevention into our supplier management processes. This includes assessing new suppliers on their labour practices and ethical standards where appropriate and giving preference to those that can demonstrate robust human rights policies and procedures.

We conduct proportionate checks and audits of selected suppliers based on risk, taking into account factors such as sector, geography, and the nature of the goods or services provided. These audits may involve reviewing supplier policies, requesting evidence of labour standards, and, where necessary, visiting premises to observe working conditions. If concerns are identified, we will engage with the supplier to implement corrective actions within a defined timeframe. Persistent failure to address issues may result in the termination of the contract.

Training, Awareness, and Reporting Channels

We are committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff and relevant contractors. Training and guidance are provided so that employees can recognise the signs of exploitation, understand our zero-tolerance policy, and know how to respond if they have concerns. This helps ensure that modern slavery prevention is integrated into day-to-day decision-making and operations.

We encourage all employees, suppliers, and third parties to report any suspicions or concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices at the earliest opportunity. Concerns can be raised confidentially with line managers, senior management, or through our dedicated reporting channels, which allow for reports to be made without fear of retaliation. All reports are taken seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively. Where appropriate, we will cooperate with law enforcement and relevant authorities.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We understand that addressing modern slavery risks is an ongoing responsibility that requires continuous improvement. Each year, we review this Modern Slavery Statement and our related policies, risk assessments, and procedures to ensure they remain effective and aligned with best practice and legal requirements.

As part of the annual review, we evaluate the outcomes of supplier audits, any incidents or concerns reported, the effectiveness of training and awareness programmes, and changes in our business operations or supply chains. These insights inform updated action plans, enhanced controls, and improved engagement with suppliers and workers.

This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the senior management of Waste Collection Shoreditch, who are responsible for its implementation and oversight. It reflects our ongoing commitment to protecting human rights, promoting fair labour practices, and ensuring that modern slavery has no place in our business or supply chains.