Waste Removal Watford Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Waste Removal Watford has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to combat modern slavery in all its forms.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Waste Removal Watford has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour and all forms of exploitation. This commitment applies to every aspect of our business, including the collection, transport and processing of waste, as well as all ancillary services provided to our customers.

We expect the same high standards from all parties we work with. Our stance on modern slavery is communicated to employees, agency workers, contractors and suppliers from the outset of our relationship and reinforced through our contractual and operational requirements.

Scope of This Statement

This statement covers the activities of Waste Removal Watford and applies to all individuals working for or on behalf of the company, at every level and in every function. It extends to our entire supply chain, including suppliers of vehicles, equipment, uniforms, fuel, maintenance services, disposal facilities and any labour or recruitment agencies engaged by us.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

We recognise that the greatest risk of modern slavery often arises in complex supply chains. To manage this risk, Waste Removal Watford has established minimum standards for suppliers, which include compliance with all applicable labour laws, the prohibition of forced or bonded labour, respect for freedom of movement and the prohibition of child labour.

We carry out due diligence on new suppliers through a combination of pre-qualification questionnaires, declarations on labour practices and, where appropriate, verification checks. Existing suppliers are subject to periodic audits that may include document reviews, site visits and interviews to assess working conditions, employment terms and recruitment practices.

Where we identify non-compliance or areas of concern, we seek to work collaboratively with the supplier to implement corrective action plans within a specified timeframe. If a supplier fails to address serious issues or shows unwillingness to improve, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship.

Employee Awareness and Responsibilities

All employees share responsibility for helping to identify and prevent modern slavery. Our policies set out clear expectations on ethical conduct, fair treatment and respect for human rights. Managers are responsible for ensuring that their teams understand these requirements and for monitoring compliance within their areas of control.

Where appropriate, we provide guidance and information to staff to help them recognise warning signs of exploitation, such as withholding of documents, inappropriate deductions from wages, signs of coercion or workers appearing fearful or unable to speak freely.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Waste Removal Watford encourages anyone with concerns about modern slavery or unethical working practices to report them at the earliest opportunity. Reports can be made to a line manager, a senior manager or directly to our designated compliance contact. Employees may raise concerns in person, by telephone or in writing.

We also expect our suppliers, contractors and other stakeholders to report any suspected instances of modern slavery connected with our operations or supply chains. All reports are treated seriously, handled sensitively and, where requested, confidentially. No person will suffer any form of retaliation for raising a concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated after investigation.

Investigations and Corrective Actions

Any allegation or suspicion of modern slavery will be promptly assessed and, where appropriate, investigated. We may work with relevant authorities, external experts or non-governmental organisations to ensure a thorough and fair process.

If modern slavery is identified, Waste Removal Watford will take immediate steps to protect affected individuals, support remediation and prevent recurrence. This may include ending relationships with offending parties, notifying law enforcement, improving internal controls and enhancing training or oversight.

Monitoring, Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. Waste Removal Watford monitors the effectiveness of our measures through supplier audit findings, incident reports, feedback from staff and changes in relevant legislation or guidance.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually by senior management to assess our progress, identify emerging risks and strengthen our approach where necessary. The review may result in updated policies, revised supplier requirements, additional training or improvements to our reporting channels and audit processes.

By publishing this statement, Waste Removal Watford reaffirms its commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains, and to promoting ethical, transparent and responsible working practices in the waste removal sector.