Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Waste Clearance Elephant and Castle in respect of our financial year and sets out the actions we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that the waste management and clearance sector can be exposed to labour risks, and we are committed to ensuring our services are delivered ethically and responsibly.

We operate in and around Elephant and Castle, providing waste clearance, recycling, and related services to residential, commercial, and public sector clients. Our activities require collaboration with a range of suppliers, including labour providers, transport operators, equipment providers, and recycling facilities. We understand that effective oversight of these relationships is essential to upholding our values.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Waste Clearance Elephant and Castle maintains a clear zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. Any form of forced, bonded, or compulsory labour, servitude, or exploitation is strictly prohibited within our business and across our supply chains. We expect the same high standards from all those with whom we work.

Every manager and supervisor is responsible for promoting and enforcing this policy. Any breach of our zero-tolerance 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 and proportionate action, which may include the termination of contracts and reporting to relevant authorities.

Supply Chain Standards and Audits

We are committed to working only with suppliers and subcontractors who share our commitment to ethical labour practices. As part of our due diligence processes, we expect suppliers to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights legislation, and to ensure that they do not use forced or trafficked labour in any form.

We are developing and implementing a programme of supplier assessment and audits proportionate to the level of risk. This includes requesting information on labour practices, reviewing relevant policies, and, where appropriate, conducting on-site checks or remote audits. We pay particular attention to higher-risk areas such as temporary labour, waste sorting, and international sourcing of equipment or materials.

Where risks are identified, we engage with suppliers to agree corrective actions and timelines. If issues are not addressed satisfactorily, we will reconsider the business relationship.

Training, Awareness, and Reporting Channels

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our workforce. Appropriate staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and contract management, receive training on identifying indicators of modern slavery and on the steps to take if concerns arise.

All employees and workers at Waste Clearance Elephant and Castle are encouraged to speak up if they suspect any form of exploitation or unethical labour practice. Concerns may be reported directly to a line manager, to senior management, or through our internal whistleblowing arrangements. We treat all reports seriously, investigate them promptly, and, where appropriate, escalate matters to external authorities.

We will not tolerate victimisation of any individual who raises a concern in good faith. Confidentiality is respected as far as practicable, and individuals are supported throughout the reporting and investigation process.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We are committed to continually improving our systems, controls, and awareness to reduce the risk of exploitation in our operations and supply chains. Key areas of focus include strengthening supplier due diligence, enhancing training programmes, and refining our incident response procedures.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed annually by the senior management of Waste Clearance Elephant and Castle to ensure that it remains relevant, effective, and aligned with evolving legal requirements and best practice. Updates are made where necessary to reflect changes in our operations, risk assessments, and stakeholder expectations.

By publishing this statement, Waste Clearance Elephant and Castle reaffirms its commitment to acting ethically, protecting the rights and dignity of workers, and playing a positive role in preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in the waste clearance industry.