Modern Slavery Statement for Waste Collection Swiss Cottage

Waste Collection Swiss Cottage is committed to conducting all aspects of its business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement outlines the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains, and sets out our expectations of all those who work with us.

Our commitment and zero-tolerance policy

We operate a clear zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, debt bondage, child labour, and human trafficking. This applies to every part of our own business and to all third parties that supply goods or services to us. We are committed to acting ethically and transparently, and to implementing effective systems and controls that prevent any form of exploitation.

All employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers are expected to share this commitment. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter that may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts, or reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our business and supply chains

Waste Collection Swiss Cottage provides waste management and collection services to residential, commercial, and public sector customers. Our supply chains include providers of vehicles, equipment, uniforms, cleaning products, personal protective equipment, maintenance services, and labour agencies.

We recognise that certain areas of our supply chain may present higher risks, particularly where services or materials originate from sectors or regions with known labour rights challenges. We are committed to identifying, assessing, and mitigating these risks proactively.

Supplier standards and audit process

We expect all suppliers and contractors to adhere to our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery and to comply with all applicable labour and human rights laws. Our supplier onboarding process includes an assessment of the supplier’s policies and practices relating to modern slavery, working conditions, wages, and ethical conduct.

We conduct periodic audits and reviews of key suppliers, focusing on those operating in higher-risk sectors or geographies. These audits may include site visits, document reviews, and discussions with management and, where feasible, with workers. Where non-compliance or areas of concern are identified, we require corrective action within a clearly defined timeframe and monitor progress. Persistent or serious failures may result in the suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting channels and raising concerns

We encourage all employees, workers in our supply chains, and any other stakeholders to report concerns about potential modern slavery or human rights abuses. Concerns can be reported through line managers, senior management, or via designated reporting channels within the company. Reports may be made confidentially, and, where requested and appropriate, anonymously.

We do not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. All allegations are treated seriously, investigated promptly, and appropriate action is taken based on the findings. If necessary, we will engage with external specialists or authorities to address serious or complex cases.

Training and awareness

We provide training and guidance to relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and site supervision, to help them recognise signs of modern slavery and understand how to respond to concerns. Our intention is to build awareness throughout the organisation so that everyone understands their role in preventing exploitation.

Monitoring, accountability and annual review

Responsibility for implementing and overseeing this Modern Slavery Statement sits with the senior management team of Waste Collection Swiss Cottage. We monitor the effectiveness of our actions through supplier audits, incident reports, and feedback from staff and stakeholders.

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and emerging best practice. As part of the annual review, we assess our risk profile, evaluate the outcomes of audits and investigations, and identify opportunities for improvement. Updated versions of this statement are communicated internally and made available to stakeholders on request.

By maintaining rigorous standards, transparent practices, and a culture that values human dignity, Waste Collection Swiss Cottage aims to ensure that modern slavery has no place in our business or supply chains.