Kingston upon Thames Cleaners Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Kingston upon Thames Cleaners in respect of the financial year ending 31 December and sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious violation of fundamental human rights and we are committed to ensuring that it has no place within our organisation or the services we provide.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Kingston upon Thames Cleaners operates a clear and uncompromising zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking. This applies to all aspects of our business, including the recruitment and management of our workforce and the conduct of our suppliers, contractors, and business partners.
All colleagues, irrespective of role or seniority, are required to uphold this commitment and to act with integrity at all times. We expect those with whom we do business to share our stance and to take equivalent steps to prevent exploitation within their own organisations.
Our Business and Supply Chain
We provide professional cleaning services within Kingston upon Thames and surrounding areas, working with a range of suppliers that may include providers of cleaning products and equipment, staffing agencies, facilities management partners, and other service providers. We recognise that certain sectors and regions can carry a higher risk of labour exploitation and we actively consider these risk factors in our procurement processes.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers and contractors to comply with all applicable laws relating to employment, labour, and human rights, including legislation addressing modern slavery and human trafficking. As part of our supplier onboarding and ongoing management, we seek assurances that appropriate policies, procedures, and due diligence measures are in place.
Where appropriate and proportionate to the risk level, we conduct supplier audits or request independent audit reports to verify compliance with our standards. These audits may include checks on recruitment practices, working conditions, wage and hour records, and grievance mechanisms for workers. If any supplier is found to be in breach of our expectations on modern slavery, we will require immediate corrective action and reserve the right to terminate the relationship if adequate improvements are not made.
Employee Awareness and Responsibility
All staff are expected to be vigilant for signs of exploitation and to report any concerns without delay. Management is responsible for promoting awareness of modern slavery risks, reinforcing our zero-tolerance policy, and ensuring that decisions about recruitment and procurement are aligned with this statement.
We aim to provide guidance and information to colleagues so they understand what modern slavery can look like, how it might arise in a cleaning and facilities environment, and how to respond if they suspect wrongdoing.
Reporting Channels and Escalation
Kingston upon Thames Cleaners encourages anyone with concerns about modern slavery, whether within our business or in our supply chains, to speak up. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting routes, such as line managers or senior management, or by using any established whistleblowing or grievance channels within the company.
All reports will be treated seriously and, where possible, confidentially. We will investigate concerns promptly and fairly, and we will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise issues in good faith. Where necessary, we will work with relevant authorities and specialist organisations to address identified risks or incidents.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility and requires continuous improvement. Each year, Kingston upon Thames Cleaners will review this Modern Slavery Statement and our related policies and procedures to assess their effectiveness and to identify opportunities for enhancement.
Our annual review will consider changes in legislation, emerging best practice, and any learning from incidents, audits, or risk assessments undertaken during the year. We will update our approach as needed to strengthen safeguards, refine supplier due diligence, and improve awareness across the organisation.
This statement has been approved by the leadership of Kingston upon Thames Cleaners and reflects our ongoing commitment to operating ethically, lawfully, and with respect for the dignity and rights of every person involved in our business and supply chain.
