Rubbish Collection Haringey Modern Slavery Statement

Rubbish Collection Haringey is committed to conducting all aspects of our waste and recycling operations in a manner that respects human rights and promotes ethical labour practices. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take, and will continue to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking from occurring within our business and our supply chains.

Modern slavery includes slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, bonded labour, and human trafficking. We recognise that the waste management and environmental services sector can be exposed to risks, particularly in relation to subcontracted labour, agency workers, and the sourcing of equipment, vehicles, and uniforms.

Zero-Tolerance Approach

We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking in all areas of our business. This means we will not knowingly engage with, support, or profit from any form of exploitation. Our managers are responsible for promoting a culture in which respect, fairness, and lawful employment practices are mandatory and non-negotiable.

All employees, whether permanent, temporary, or agency, are expected to act with integrity and to report any concern related to modern slavery. Any breach of this policy by an employee may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Where suppliers or contractors are found to be in breach, we will take appropriate action, which may include termination of contracts and reporting to the relevant authorities.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

We expect all suppliers, contractors, and business partners to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. Our procurement processes incorporate ethical and compliance considerations, and we seek to work only with organisations that uphold lawful and fair employment practices.

As part of our due diligence, we require suppliers to confirm that they do not use forced, trafficked, or child labour and that they comply with all applicable labour and human rights legislation. We prioritise higher-risk categories for enhanced scrutiny, such as labour-only subcontractors, uniform and equipment suppliers, and providers of cleaning and facility services.

We conduct periodic supplier assessments and audits, which may include requesting documentation, reviewing labour practices, and where appropriate, conducting site visits. Any identified non-compliance is addressed through corrective action plans with clear timescales. Continued non-compliance or refusal to cooperate will result in reconsideration or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Rubbish Collection Haringey encourages all employees, agency workers, suppliers, and members of the public to raise concerns about any suspected instance of modern slavery connected to our operations or supply chain. We provide multiple internal reporting routes, including line managers and senior management, so that concerns can be raised swiftly and safely.

We uphold a no-victimisation principle. Individuals who raise concerns in good faith will not suffer retaliation, dismissal, or any adverse treatment for doing so. All reports are treated sensitively, and information is shared only with those who need it to investigate and respond. Where there is credible suspicion of modern slavery, we will take prompt action, which may include involving law enforcement or specialist support organisations.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibility

Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery efforts rests with senior management, who ensure that appropriate policies, procedures, and resources are in place. Managers in procurement, operations, and human resources have specific responsibilities to incorporate modern slavery risk assessments into their decision-making.

We provide training and guidance to relevant staff so they can recognise the signs of modern slavery, understand our reporting channels, and respond appropriately. Awareness materials are used to reinforce the importance of due diligence when engaging suppliers and when working with agency or subcontracted labour.

Monitoring, Annual Review, and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach to identifying and addressing modern slavery risks. To support this, we monitor our practices, review the outcomes of supplier audits, analyse reported concerns, and update our procedures where needed.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by senior management to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with current legislation and best practice. The review considers changes in our business activities, emerging risk areas, audit findings, and feedback from employees and stakeholders. Updated statements are communicated internally and made available externally to demonstrate our ongoing commitment to combating modern slavery in our operations and supply chains.