Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the actions taken by Bermondsey Carpet Cleaning to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our business operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting our activities ethically, responsibly, and in full compliance with applicable legislation and recognised best practice.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Bermondsey Carpet Cleaning provides professional carpet and upholstery cleaning services to residential and commercial customers. Our operations are supported by a network of suppliers and service providers, including manufacturers and distributors of cleaning products and equipment, facilities and maintenance providers, and employment and recruitment partners.

We recognise that modern slavery can occur in all sectors and at every level of the supply chain. We are therefore committed to understanding our supply chains and working closely with our partners to manage risks effectively and transparently.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We have a clear, zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking in any form. Modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights and is entirely incompatible with our values and expectations of integrity, fairness, and respect for individuals.

All workers, regardless of their role or location, must be employed voluntarily, with the freedom to leave their employment upon reasonable notice, and must receive fair pay and safe working conditions. Any form of forced, bonded, or compulsory labour, child labour, or exploitation will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Policies and Governance

Our commitment to combating modern slavery is embedded in our internal policies, which include standards on ethical conduct, equal opportunities, health and safety, and responsible procurement. These policies are communicated to all staff during induction and reinforced through ongoing training and managerial oversight.

Managers are responsible for promoting awareness of modern slavery risks and ensuring that team members understand their responsibilities. Senior management oversees the implementation of this statement and reviews our progress and any required improvements.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We expect all suppliers, contractors, and business partners to share our zero-tolerance approach and uphold equivalent standards. Before entering into or renewing a commercial relationship, we undertake due diligence that may include assessing a supplier’s labour practices, reviewing relevant policies, and considering the geographic and sector-specific risks associated with their operations.

We reserve the right to conduct audits or request information from suppliers to verify compliance with our standards regarding modern slavery and human trafficking. Where appropriate, we may carry out on-site visits, request written confirmations of compliance, or require evidence of staff welfare practices and working conditions. If a supplier fails to meet our standards or refuses to cooperate with our due diligence or audit processes, we will take appropriate action, which may include corrective measures or termination of the relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

We encourage all employees, contractors, and business partners to speak up if they suspect any instance of modern slavery or unethical practices within our business or supply chains. Concerns can be raised directly to line managers, to senior management, or through internal reporting mechanisms made available to staff.

Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. We will not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who raise genuine concerns in good faith. Where appropriate, we will work with relevant authorities and external experts to address and remedy any identified issues.

Training and Awareness

We provide guidance and awareness-raising for key staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management, to enable them to identify potential indicators of modern slavery and respond appropriately. Training helps ensure that our teams understand the importance of vigilance and the processes in place for escalation and remediation.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We are committed to continuously improving our approach to identifying, preventing, and addressing modern slavery risks. This statement and the effectiveness of our measures are reviewed at least annually by senior management. The review considers changes in our operations, developments in legislation, feedback from stakeholders, and any incidents or emerging risks.

Following each review, we may update our policies, enhance our due diligence processes, refine our reporting channels, or introduce further training where necessary. By doing so, Bermondsey Carpet Cleaning aims to strengthen our defences against modern slavery and ensure our business operates with integrity, respect, and accountability.