Modern Slavery Statement for Rubbish Collection Bermondsey

Rubbish Collection Bermondsey is committed to operating responsibly, ethically, and in full compliance with all applicable laws relating to modern slavery and human trafficking. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to ensure that slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking have no place within our operations or supply chains.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery in all its forms. This commitment applies to every aspect of our business, from direct employment through to the procurement of goods, equipment, and services that support our rubbish collection and waste management activities in Bermondsey.

All managers and employees are required to act with integrity and to support this policy. We expect the same high standards from all our contractors, suppliers, and business partners. Any evidence of modern slavery or human trafficking associated with our operations or supply chain will lead to immediate investigation and may result in termination of contracts and referral to the relevant authorities.

Our Workforce and Employment Practices

Rubbish Collection Bermondsey is committed to fair and lawful employment practices. All employees are recruited in line with robust right-to-work checks, clear contracts, and transparent pay structures. We do not tolerate any form of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, and we do not employ workers below the legal minimum age for employment.

We promote a culture where workers can raise concerns about treatment, working conditions, or suspected modern slavery without fear of retaliation. Our internal policies, including whistleblowing and grievance procedures, support this culture of openness.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles, equipment, personal protective gear, recycling facilities, and various support services. We recognise that modern slavery risks can exist at multiple tiers within these supply chains, particularly where manual labour or outsourced services are involved.

We set clear expectations through our procurement processes and supplier terms. Suppliers are required to comply with all applicable labour, human rights, and anti-slavery laws. We reserve the right to conduct audits or request evidence of compliance, which may include site visits, documentation checks, or structured questionnaires.

Where a supplier is identified as higher risk, we may implement enhanced due diligence and more frequent audits. If a supplier fails to meet our standards or refuses to engage constructively on corrective actions, we will consider ending the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery at the earliest opportunity. Concerns may relate to our own operations or to any organisation with which we work.

Reports can be made to line managers, senior management, or through our designated whistleblowing channels. Individuals raising concerns in good faith will be supported, and we will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation. All allegations will be treated seriously, investigated promptly, and, where appropriate, reported to the relevant authorities.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We provide guidance to relevant staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and contract management, so they can recognise signs of modern slavery and understand how to respond. We are committed to reviewing and improving our procedures in light of changing risk profiles, legal developments, and industry best practice.

Lessons learned from audits, investigations, or reported concerns are used to strengthen our controls, refine supplier selection, and enhance staff awareness.

Annual Review and Approval

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed on an annual basis to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with our operations and risk environment. The review considers changes in our business activities, supply chains, and any issues identified during the preceding year.

The statement is approved by the senior leadership of Rubbish Collection Bermondsey, who retain overall responsibility for its implementation. By maintaining this structured approach, we reaffirm our commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking within our business and throughout our supply chains.