Modern Slavery Statement for Erith Carpet Cleaners
Erith Carpet Cleaners is committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, and any form of exploitation within our operations and supply chain. We recognise that zero tolerance is not simply a policy position; it is a core standard that guides our decisions, procurement practices, and daily conduct.
As a responsible carpet cleaning provider, Erith Carpet Cleaners acknowledges that risks can exist in areas such as cleaning chemicals, equipment supply, uniforms, waste handling, transport, and outsourced services. To address these risks, we apply proportionate due diligence across our business relationships. Our approach is based on transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement, ensuring that every Erith carpet cleaning activity is carried out ethically and lawfully.
We expect all employees, contractors, agency staff, and business partners to uphold the same high standards. Any breach of our anti-slavery requirements is treated seriously and may result in termination of engagement, where appropriate. We will not knowingly work with any supplier, subcontractor, or partner that uses coercion, deception, debt bondage, or other exploitative practices. This commitment also applies to all areas of carpet cleaning services in Erith, from initial sourcing through to service delivery.
Our supplier management process includes risk-based checks before onboarding and periodic review thereafter. We assess suppliers according to geography, sector, labour practices, and the nature of goods or services supplied. Where needed, we request evidence of employment practices, modern slavery controls, and compliance with applicable labour laws. Higher-risk suppliers may be subject to enhanced scrutiny, including questionnaires, document review, and on-site or remote supplier audits. These audits help us verify that workers are treated fairly and that modern slavery risks are actively managed.
Supplier audits are not a one-time exercise. We use them to identify gaps, confirm corrective actions, and monitor improvement over time. If concerns arise, we investigate promptly and require suppliers to address issues within defined timeframes. Failure to cooperate, repeated non-compliance, or evidence of exploitation will lead to escalation and, where necessary, discontinuation of the relationship. This measured but firm approach supports the integrity of Erith Carpet Cleaners and reinforces our expectation that every supply chain partner shares our values.
We also provide clear reporting channels so that concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation. Employees and third parties may report suspected modern slavery, unsafe working conditions, unethical recruitment practices, or any other concern through internal management routes or designated safeguarding procedures. Reports may be made confidentially and will be handled sensitively and objectively. No person will suffer detriment for raising a genuine concern in good faith, and all allegations will be reviewed carefully.
Training and awareness are important parts of our response. Managers and relevant staff receive guidance on recognising indicators of exploitation, including restricted movement, withheld identity documents, unpaid or unusual wage arrangements, intimidation, and excessive working hours. By strengthening awareness across the business, Erith Carpet Cleaning reduces the risk of exploitation going unnoticed. Our culture encourages vigilance, responsible decision-making, and prompt escalation when something does not seem right.
We maintain records of supplier assessments, audit outcomes, incidents, and corrective actions to support accountability and consistency. Where an issue is identified, we work with relevant parties to understand root causes and implement practical remediation where appropriate. However, where there is evidence of deliberate abuse or refusal to improve, we will act decisively. This may include suspending work, ending contracts, or notifying the relevant authorities if required by law or by our internal standards.
This statement is subject to an annual review by Erith Carpet Cleaners to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with legal obligations and best practice. During each review, we consider changes in legislation, sector risks, supplier performance, and internal learning. The review may lead to updated controls, stronger due diligence, additional training, or revised reporting arrangements. Through this annual process, Erith Carpet Cleaners confirms its ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and protecting vulnerable people across its operations and supply chains.