Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Our Commitment

Waste Removal Hackney is firmly committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships. We recognise that modern slavery, including human trafficking, forced labour, debt bondage, and child labour, is a severe violation of fundamental human rights. We adopt a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery in our operations and in our supply chains, and we expect the same high standards from all those we work with.

This statement sets out the steps Waste Removal Hackney is taking to identify, prevent, and address the risk of modern slavery and human trafficking in connection with our business activities.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

Our zero-tolerance policy on modern slavery applies to all employees, agency staff, contractors, suppliers, and other business partners. Any form of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour is strictly prohibited. Workers must be free to leave their employment with reasonable notice, must not be required to surrender passports or identity documents, and must receive fair pay in line with applicable laws and industry standards.

We will not knowingly work with any organisation that engages in, facilitates, or turns a blind eye to modern slavery or human trafficking. Breaches of this policy by employees may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Breaches by suppliers and contractors may result in termination of contracts and notification to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Expectations

Waste Removal Hackney works with a range of suppliers, including waste processing facilities, equipment providers, vehicle maintenance services, and temporary labour agencies. We recognise that the risk of modern slavery can be elevated in certain sectors and geographies, particularly where there is low-skilled or migrant labour.

We require our suppliers and contractors to comply with all applicable labour and human rights laws and to maintain policies and practices that actively guard against modern slavery. New suppliers are assessed on their ability to meet these requirements. Where necessary, we may seek additional information on recruitment practices, worker rights, and conditions of employment before entering into or renewing a business relationship.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

To support our zero-tolerance stance, we are developing and implementing proportionate supplier due diligence and audit processes. These include risk-based reviews of suppliers, focusing on those operating in higher risk categories such as labour provision and manual processing activities.

Supplier audits may involve reviewing documentation related to employment contracts, wage payment records, working hours, and health and safety provisions. Where appropriate, we may conduct site visits to assess conditions first-hand and to speak with workers in a confidential manner. Any concerns identified during these reviews will lead to corrective action plans, closer monitoring, or, in serious cases, termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

Waste Removal Hackney encourages all employees, suppliers, and members of the public to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business. Concerns can be raised with line managers, senior management, or directly with our central office by phone or email. Reports can be made confidentially, and we will respect requests for anonymity as far as possible.

We will investigate all reports promptly and fairly, taking appropriate action where any risk or instance of modern slavery is identified. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith, and we are committed to providing support to individuals who come forward.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, supplier management, and site operations. Training and guidance will help our people recognise indicators of modern slavery, understand how to respond to concerns, and follow our internal escalation procedures.

We also encourage our key suppliers to ensure that their managers and supervisors understand modern slavery risks and are equipped to act appropriately if issues are identified in their own operations or within their supply chains.

Monitoring, Governance and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior management of Waste Removal Hackney. They ensure that our policies remain effective, relevant, and aligned with legal and ethical expectations. We monitor our practices, review supplier performance, and consider feedback from staff and other stakeholders to identify areas for improvement.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least once every year and updated as necessary to reflect changes in our business, legislation, or best practice. We are committed to continuous improvement and to strengthening our controls over time, so that we play a meaningful role in preventing modern slavery and protecting vulnerable workers in our sphere of influence.