Kingston upon Thames Carpet Cleaners Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Kingston upon Thames Carpet Cleaners has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking from occurring within our business operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our relationships, and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard individuals from exploitation.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Approach
Kingston upon Thames Carpet Cleaners maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, servitude, and child labour. We will not knowingly engage with, support, or benefit from any organisation or individual involved in such practices. Our directors and managers are responsible for promoting this culture of zero tolerance and ensuring that all staff understand their responsibilities.
We expect the same high standards from all those we work with, including employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers. Where we identify risks of modern slavery, we are committed to taking prompt, proportionate, and decisive action to address them.
Our Business and Supply Chains
We operate as a professional carpet and upholstery cleaning business serving Kingston upon Thames and surrounding areas. Our supply chains primarily include providers of cleaning products and equipment, personal protective equipment, vehicle services, and facilities-related services.
Although we consider our overall risk of exposure to modern slavery to be relatively low, we recognise that risks can exist at different points in the supply chain, particularly where products or raw materials are sourced from higher-risk regions or industries. We take these potential risks seriously and seek to work only with reputable suppliers who share our commitment to ethical practices.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We are progressively integrating specific modern slavery and human rights clauses into our supplier arrangements. These clauses require suppliers to comply with all applicable laws and regulations relating to modern slavery and human trafficking and to maintain appropriate policies, training, and controls.
We reserve the right to conduct audits or request evidence of compliance from our suppliers. This may include asking for details of their own modern slavery policies, due diligence processes, staff training, and grievance mechanisms. Where practical, we will prioritise suppliers that can demonstrate transparent and robust ethical practices, including accreditation, codes of conduct, or independent assessments.
If a supplier is found to be involved in, or unable to adequately address, modern slavery risks, we will work with them to remedy the situation where possible. Where issues cannot be resolved, we will consider suspending or terminating the relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels
We encourage all employees, contractors, and any third parties who work with us to report any concerns or suspected instances of modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business or supply chains. Concerns may include indicators of forced labour, unreasonable recruitment fees, withholding of identity documents, or unsafe and exploitative working conditions.
Reports can be made to line managers, senior management, or through any established internal reporting channels and escalation routes. We are committed to handling all reports sensitively, fairly, and as confidentially as possible. We will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise genuine concerns in good faith.
Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities
Relevant managers and staff are made aware of the risks of modern slavery and human trafficking, and of the role they play in identifying and preventing exploitation. This includes understanding warning signs, recognising high-risk circumstances, and knowing how to escalate concerns appropriately.
Responsibility for overseeing this statement and our approach to modern slavery rests with senior management, who ensure that policies and procedures are implemented, monitored, and continually improved.
Monitoring, Annual Review, and Continuous Improvement
We are committed to reviewing and improving our approach to tackling modern slavery on an ongoing basis. This includes assessing our supply chains, strengthening our due diligence processes, and updating internal guidance and training where necessary.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. As part of this review, we will consider feedback from staff, suppliers, and other stakeholders, as well as any incidents or concerns raised during the year. Where improvements are identified, we will update our procedures and communicate changes to relevant parties.
This statement reflects the position of Kingston upon Thames Carpet Cleaners for the current financial year and has been approved by senior management, who are responsible for its implementation and oversight.
