Cleaners Watford Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Cleaners Watford in respect of the current financial year. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Cleaners Watford is committed to conducting business in an ethical and responsible manner and to respecting the rights and dignity of every individual who works for or with us.
Modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights. It includes slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour and human trafficking. Cleaners Watford recognises that the cleaning and facilities sector can be exposed to particular risks, especially where low paid, temporary or migrant labour is involved. We are committed to identifying, preventing and addressing any such risks.
Zero Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
Cleaners Watford operates a clear zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation or individual involved in such practices. This commitment applies to all parts of our business, including the recruitment and management of our workforce, procurement of goods and services, and relationships with contractors, subcontractors and other partners.
Our managers are responsible for upholding this policy within their areas of control and for ensuring that any concerns raised are treated seriously and handled promptly. All employees are expected to act with integrity and to support our efforts to uphold human rights and fair working conditions.
Our Supply Chain and Supplier Expectations
Cleaners Watford works with a range of suppliers, including providers of cleaning products, equipment, workwear, and ancillary services. We expect all suppliers to share our commitment to tackling modern slavery and to comply with all applicable labour, employment and human rights legislation in the jurisdictions in which they operate.
We communicate our expectations to suppliers and reserve the right to terminate relationships where there is evidence of non-compliance with our standards or any involvement in modern slavery or human trafficking. We favour working with suppliers who can demonstrate transparent labour practices and strong ethical standards.
Supplier Audits and Due Diligence
To reduce the risk of modern slavery in our supply chains, Cleaners Watford undertakes proportionate due diligence on new and existing suppliers. This includes gathering information on their employment practices, use of subcontractors, and compliance with relevant labour laws.
Where appropriate, we conduct audits or request evidence of internal audits, focusing on areas considered higher risk due to geography, type of work or reliance on vulnerable workers. These checks may include reviewing policies on working hours, wages and recruitment, as well as verifying age and identity documentation processes used by suppliers.
If an audit or review raises concerns, we will work with the supplier to develop a corrective action plan with clear timescales. Where improvements are not made, or serious breaches are identified, we will consider suspending or ending the commercial relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Cleaners Watford encourages all employees, workers, contractors and suppliers to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or human trafficking at the earliest possible stage. Concerns may relate to our own operations or to any part of our supply chain.
Reports can be made to line managers or senior management, or in accordance with any internal whistleblowing procedures that may be in place. We are committed to ensuring that anyone raising a concern in good faith will not suffer any detriment as a result. All reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively and investigated promptly. Where appropriate, we will cooperate fully with law enforcement and other competent authorities.
Training and Awareness
We recognise that training and awareness are essential to preventing modern slavery. Cleaners Watford seeks to ensure that relevant staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement and contract management, understand the risks of modern slavery and are able to identify warning signs.
Information on our zero-tolerance approach and reporting expectations is communicated through internal channels. We are committed to improving awareness over time and to updating our training content as legal requirements and best practices evolve.
Monitoring, Governance and Annual Review
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior management of Cleaners Watford. They monitor the effectiveness of our controls and ensure that any identified issues are addressed appropriately.
This statement and the associated measures will be reviewed at least annually, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, business operations or risk assessment findings. As part of the annual review, we will consider feedback from staff and suppliers, the results of any audits or investigations, and developments in best practice.
Where opportunities to strengthen our safeguards are identified, we will update our policies, procedures and contractual terms accordingly. Cleaners Watford is committed to continual improvement and to playing a responsible role in the global effort to eradicate modern slavery and human trafficking.