Modern Slavery Statement for Waste Collection Dulwich

Waste Collection Dulwich is firmly committed to conducting business in an ethical, responsible and transparent manner. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, contractors, agency staff, and suppliers engaged by Waste Collection Dulwich.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, servitude and human trafficking. We will not knowingly work with any organisation that engages in, condones, or is knowingly involved in modern slavery practices.

All business decisions, from procurement to subcontracting, must align with this zero-tolerance stance. Senior management is responsible for setting the tone, ensuring that ethical conduct and respect for human rights are recognised as non-negotiable across the business. Any breach of this policy by employees or suppliers will be treated as a serious matter which may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts, or reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our Supply Chain and Due Diligence

Waste Collection Dulwich works with a range of suppliers and service providers, including waste processing facilities, equipment manufacturers, vehicle maintenance providers, and recruitment agencies. We recognise that some areas of our supply chain may present a higher risk of labour exploitation, particularly where manual, low-paid or outsourced work is involved.

To manage these risks, we conduct proportionate due diligence on existing and new suppliers. Suppliers are expected to demonstrate that they provide safe working conditions, respect workers' rights, and operate in compliance with all applicable labour and human rights laws. Where necessary, we seek assurances that suppliers have policies and procedures in place to prevent modern slavery within their own operations and supply chains.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

We use a combination of risk-based assessments and audits to monitor our suppliers. Where risks are identified, we may carry out more detailed reviews of supplier practices, including site visits, document checks and discussions with management and workers.

Suppliers are required to cooperate fully with any audit or monitoring activity requested by Waste Collection Dulwich. Where non-compliance or concerns are identified, we will work with the supplier to develop and implement corrective action plans with clear deadlines. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to remedy issues in a timely manner, we reserve the right to reduce, suspend or terminate our business relationship.

Training, Awareness and Reporting Channels

We recognise that awareness and vigilance are essential in preventing modern slavery. We therefore provide relevant training and guidance to managers and employees who are involved in procurement, supplier management, recruitment or supervision of frontline staff. This training covers recognising indicators of exploitation, understanding reporting routes, and responding appropriately to concerns.

Waste Collection Dulwich encourages staff, suppliers and other stakeholders to raise any concerns about modern slavery or unethical conduct without fear of retaliation. Concerns can be reported confidentially to line managers, senior management or the designated compliance contact within the business. Reports will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and handled as sensitively as possible. Where necessary, and where it is safe to do so, we will engage with external agencies or authorities.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach to tackling modern slavery. Each year, senior management will review this statement and our associated practices to assess their effectiveness, taking into account any incidents reported, audit findings, changes in legislation, and emerging best practice within the waste management sector.

As part of this annual review, we will consider additional measures such as enhanced supplier verification, expanded training, updates to contractual clauses, or increased engagement with industry partners. The updated statement will be approved by senior management and made available to employees, suppliers and customers.

This Modern Slavery Statement reflects Waste Collection Dulwich’s ongoing commitment to operating responsibly, protecting vulnerable workers, and ensuring that modern slavery has no place in our business or supply chains.