Modern Slavery Statement for Waste Collection Paddington

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Waste Collection Paddington takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold and promote human rights, and we are committed to acting ethically, transparently, and with integrity in every aspect of our business.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Waste Collection Paddington maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, debt bondage, servitude, child labour, and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with, support, or benefit from any organisation or individual involved in such practices. This commitment applies to our employees, agency workers, contractors, suppliers, and any other business partners that form part of our operations and wider supply chain.

Our leadership team is responsible for promoting a culture where human rights are respected and any concerns about modern slavery are taken seriously and acted upon immediately. Any confirmed breach of our zero-tolerance policy will result in decisive action, which may include termination of contracts, reporting to relevant authorities, and internal disciplinary measures where appropriate.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Standards

Our supply chains include providers of waste collection vehicles, equipment, personal protective equipment, maintenance services, cleaning services, office supplies, and specialist consultancy services. We expect all suppliers and partners to uphold the same high standards we set for ourselves and to comply with applicable laws relating to modern slavery, labour rights, and ethical conduct.

We communicate our expectations through our procurement processes and supplier terms. Suppliers are required to confirm that they do not use forced, trafficked, or child labour and that they provide safe working conditions, fair wages, and legal working hours. We reserve the right to cease working with any supplier that fails to meet these expectations or does not take adequate steps to remediate identified issues.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

Waste Collection Paddington undertakes proportionate due diligence on key suppliers and higher-risk categories. This may include requests for information on labour practices, verification of policies, and confirmation of compliance with relevant legislation. Where necessary, we may request supporting documentation or conduct more detailed assessments.

We aim to carry out periodic audits, which may be desk-based reviews or, where appropriate, on-site visits to assess working conditions, recruitment practices, and management controls. Any non-compliance identified through these audits will be addressed through corrective action plans. Failure to implement or maintain corrective actions within agreed timescales may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or human rights abuses connected to Waste Collection Paddington. Reports can be made to line managers, senior management, or through our internal whistleblowing arrangements. Concerns may include suspected exploitation, unsafe or coercive working conditions, irregular recruitment fees, or the withholding of identity documents.

All reports will be treated sensitively and investigated promptly. We will protect individuals who raise concerns in good faith from retaliation, victimisation, or adverse treatment. Where necessary, we will work with external experts or authorities to ensure that concerns are investigated and addressed appropriately, and that any victims are supported and safeguarded.

Training and Awareness

We recognise that awareness and understanding are essential in preventing modern slavery. Waste Collection Paddington provides relevant training and guidance to employees involved in procurement, supplier management, and recruitment so they can recognise risk indicators and respond effectively to concerns.

We are working to embed awareness of modern slavery risks into our onboarding processes, team meetings, and ongoing training, ensuring that staff at all levels understand our obligations, our policies, and how to report suspected issues.

Monitoring, Governance and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our response to modern slavery risks rests with the senior management team of Waste Collection Paddington. They review our policies, due diligence activities, and reported concerns to ensure continuous improvement and effective risk management.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually to reflect changes in our operations, supply chains, legal obligations, and emerging best practice. As part of the annual review, we will evaluate the effectiveness of our actions, update our procedures where needed, and set priorities for the coming year. We remain committed to strengthening our approach and working collaboratively with our staff, suppliers, and partners to eradicate modern slavery from our business and our wider supply chains.