Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Waste Removal Ilford is firmly committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our operations and supply chains. This statement sets out the actions we have taken, and continue to take, to ensure that slavery and human trafficking are not present in our business or in the businesses with which we work.

We recognise that modern slavery is a serious global issue that can occur in many forms, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, human trafficking and other forms of exploitation. We take our responsibilities seriously and expect the same high standards from all those with whom we have business relationships.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

Waste Removal Ilford operates a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. Any form of forced, compulsory or trafficked labour, or the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, is strictly prohibited within our own operations and our wider supply chain.

All employees, contractors and suppliers are required to comply with applicable labour, employment and human rights laws. Any breach or suspected breach of these standards will be treated as a serious matter and may result in termination of employment or business relationships, as well as referral to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Waste Removal Ilford provides waste collection, disposal and recycling services to residential, commercial and industrial customers. Our supply chains include providers of waste containers, vehicles, fuel, personal protective equipment, recycling facilities, IT and communications services, and general business support services.

We recognise that certain sectors and regions may present a higher risk of labour exploitation. We therefore assess supplier risk based on the nature of the goods or services provided, the geographical location, and the history or reputation of the supplier.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers to adhere to ethical standards that are consistent with our own commitment to preventing modern slavery. This includes compliance with local and national labour laws, the prohibition of forced or child labour, fair wages, safe working conditions and respect for workers rights.

New suppliers are subject to an initial due diligence process, which may include the completion of questionnaires, review of policies and, where necessary, onsite visits. Existing suppliers are monitored on an ongoing basis and may be subject to periodic audits focused on labour practices, workforce welfare and health and safety.

If a supplier is found to be involved in modern slavery or serious labour abuses, we will take prompt action, which may include requiring immediate remediation, suspending orders or terminating the relationship altogether.

Training and Awareness

We provide appropriate training and guidance to managers and staff who are involved in procurement, contract management, site operations and human resources. This training helps our people to recognise the signs of modern slavery, understand our internal procedures and know how to escalate concerns.

Information on modern slavery and our policy is shared with employees as part of induction and through periodic communications, reinforcing our zero-tolerance stance and the importance of vigilance.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Waste Removal Ilford encourages anyone who has concerns about potential modern slavery or human trafficking in our business or supply chains to speak up without fear of retaliation. Concerns may be raised through line managers, senior management or our designated reporting channels.

Reports can be made confidentially, and we will investigate all allegations promptly, fairly and sensitively. Where appropriate, we will cooperate with law enforcement and regulatory bodies. We do not tolerate victimisation of anyone who raises a concern in good faith.

Monitoring, Governance and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with senior management, who ensure that appropriate policies, procedures and controls are in place and are working effectively. We monitor our performance through a combination of supplier assessments, incident reporting, training records and internal reviews.

This statement and our underlying procedures are reviewed at least annually to reflect changes in legislation, industry good practice and the structure of our business and supply chains. Where areas for improvement are identified, we update our processes and communicate any changes to relevant employees and suppliers.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement has been approved by the management of Waste Removal Ilford and represents our commitment to continuous improvement in identifying, preventing and addressing the risks of modern slavery in our operations and supply chains.