Richmond upon Thames Cleaner Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions taken by Richmond upon Thames Cleaner to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and to protect the rights and dignity of everyone who contributes to our services.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Richmond upon Thames Cleaner operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and all forms of exploitation. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls designed to ensure that modern slavery does not occur within our own operations or those of our suppliers.

All employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to comply with this policy. Any breach of our zero-tolerance approach is treated as a serious matter and may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts, or reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Richmond upon Thames Cleaner provides professional cleaning services across the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and surrounding areas. Our supply chains include providers of cleaning products and equipment, workwear, facility management support, and certain specialist subcontractors who may assist with specific cleaning or maintenance tasks.

We recognise that risks can arise in supply chains where there may be lower levels of oversight, complex subcontracting arrangements, or reliance on temporary or migrant labour. We therefore strive to work only with reputable partners who share our values and commitment to human rights.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

We aim to build long-term, transparent relationships with our suppliers, underpinned by clear expectations regarding labour standards and ethical conduct. As part of our due diligence process, we assess new and existing suppliers for potential risks relating to modern slavery and human trafficking.

We expect suppliers to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws, to prohibit forced or compulsory labour, and to ensure that all workers are employed of their own free will, are free to leave their employment, and are paid fairly and transparently.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

Richmond upon Thames Cleaner conducts proportionate supplier audits and monitoring activities based on the level of risk identified. These may include reviewing supplier policies and procedures, verifying right-to-work documentation, seeking evidence of wage compliance, and discussing labour practices during site visits or review meetings.

Where risks or non-compliance are identified, we engage with the supplier to agree corrective actions and timeframes for implementation. If a supplier fails to remedy concerns to our satisfaction, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the business relationship.

Training, Awareness, and Reporting Channels

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery among our employees and managers so they can recognise warning signs and respond appropriately. Relevant staff receive guidance on ethical recruitment, right-to-work checks, and our internal processes for reporting concerns.

All workers are encouraged to report any suspicion or knowledge of modern slavery, whether within our own operations or in connection with our suppliers or subcontractors. Concerns can be raised directly with line managers, senior management, or via internal reporting channels. Reports can be made confidentially, and we do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Richmond upon Thames Cleaner is committed to continuous improvement in our approach to tackling modern slavery. Each year we will review this statement and our related policies, procedures, and training to ensure they remain effective and reflect evolving best practice, legal requirements, and the changing nature of our operations and supply chains.

As part of the annual review, we will assess the effectiveness of our due diligence and audit activities, consider any reported incidents or concerns, and identify opportunities to strengthen our controls. Outcomes from this review will inform our future priorities and action plans.

This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the leadership of Richmond upon Thames Cleaner and will be updated and published annually to demonstrate our ongoing commitment to combating modern slavery and protecting the rights of all workers connected to our business.