Modern Slavery Statement for Waste Collection Acton

Waste Collection Acton is committed to conducting business in a manner that respects human rights and upholds the dignity and wellbeing of every individual. This Modern Slavery Statement outlines our approach to identifying, preventing, and addressing modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, contractors, and suppliers engaged by Waste Collection Acton.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

We have a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, servitude, and human trafficking. We do not tolerate any practice that exploits people, restricts their freedom, or violates fundamental human rights. This policy is integral to how we operate and is embedded in our internal procedures, codes of conduct, and contractual expectations with third parties.

All staff are required to act with integrity and to comply with applicable laws and company standards relating to labour, human rights, and ethical conduct. Any breach of this policy by employees may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Any supplier or contractor found to be involved in modern slavery will face corrective action, including potential termination of contracts.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles, equipment, uniforms, maintenance services, technology, and other operational support. We recognise that modern slavery risks can arise at multiple tiers of the supply chain, particularly where there is reliance on low-paid, temporary, or migrant labour.

We expect all suppliers to uphold equivalent standards to our own regarding human rights and labour conditions. Our procurement processes require suppliers to confirm compliance with applicable modern slavery legislation and to demonstrate their own policies and procedures designed to prevent exploitation.

To reinforce these standards, we operate a programme of risk-based supplier audits. Higher-risk suppliers may be asked to provide additional evidence of compliance, such as details of recruitment practices, working hours, wage records, and grievance mechanisms. Where appropriate, we may conduct site visits or request independent audit reports. If non-compliance is identified, we work with suppliers to establish corrective action plans within clear timeframes. Failure to address concerns may lead to suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Internal Awareness and Reporting Channels

We are committed to fostering a culture where concerns about modern slavery can be raised safely, confidentially, and without fear of retaliation. Employees, contractors, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery, whether within our own operations or in our supply chain.

Concerns can be raised through line managers, the human resources team, or a dedicated reporting channel managed by senior management. Reports may be made in person, by phone, or in writing. All reports are treated seriously and investigated promptly, with appropriate steps taken to protect those who raise concerns in good faith.

Where we identify potential victims of modern slavery, we will act sensitively and responsibly, seeking to support affected individuals and, where necessary, referring matters to the appropriate authorities or specialist organisations.

Governance, Monitoring, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery approach rests with the senior management team, who ensure that the policy is implemented, communicated, and integrated across our business functions. We regularly review our risk assessments, supplier engagement, and training needs to strengthen our defences against modern slavery.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every 12 months to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with legal and best practice requirements. The annual review considers feedback from audits, reported concerns, regulatory developments, and any incidents or near-misses. Where improvements are identified, we update our policies, procedures, and training programmes accordingly.

By publishing this statement, Waste Collection Acton reaffirms its commitment to continuous improvement in preventing modern slavery and protecting the rights and welfare of all individuals connected with our operations and supply chain.