Modern Slavery Statement for South Kensington Carpet Cleaners

South Kensington Carpet Cleaners is committed to conducting business with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to identify, address, and mitigate any risks of exploitation connected to our services and to promote fair and ethical working practices at all times.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

We have a clear and strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, servitude, and child labour. This commitment applies to all aspects of our business, including direct employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers. We will not knowingly work with any organisation or individual involved in such activities and will take decisive action if any form of exploitation is identified.

All employees and managers are expected to uphold this policy and to act in a way that supports the dignity, safety, and wellbeing of every person. We promote a culture in which concerns about unethical or unlawful practices can be raised and addressed without fear of retaliation.

Our Supply Chain and Supplier Standards

Our supply chain includes providers of cleaning products, equipment, uniforms, vehicles, and various support services. We are committed to working only with suppliers who share our values and who demonstrate a genuine commitment to preventing modern slavery.

We communicate our expectations to suppliers through our purchasing practices and contractual terms, which require compliance with all applicable labour and human rights laws. We aim to build long-term, transparent relationships with suppliers that encourage continuous improvement and open dialogue about ethical standards.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

To reduce the risk of modern slavery in our supply chain, we undertake proportionate due diligence on existing and prospective suppliers. This may include assessing their policies on labour and human rights, reviewing public information about their practices, and considering their geographical and sector risk profile.

Where appropriate, we conduct supplier audits to verify compliance with our requirements. These audits may be carried out directly by South Kensington Carpet Cleaners or by independent auditors. If an audit reveals concerns, we will work with the supplier on a corrective action plan and set clear timescales for improvement. Should a supplier fail to remedy serious issues or demonstrate a willingness to improve, we will seek to terminate the relationship in a responsible manner.

Training, Awareness, and Reporting Channels

We recognise that raising awareness among our workforce is vital to preventing modern slavery. Relevant team members are provided with guidance on identifying the signs of exploitation, understanding risk factors, and knowing how to respond to concerns. We aim to embed respect for human rights into our everyday decision-making and procedures.

We provide clear internal reporting channels for employees and other workers to raise concerns about potential modern slavery or unethical practices connected to our operations or supply chain. Concerns can be reported to line managers or senior management. Reports are treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled as sensitively and confidentially as possible. We do not tolerate victimisation of any person who raises a concern in good faith.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We understand that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process and that risks may change over time. South Kensington Carpet Cleaners is committed to reviewing and improving our policies and practices to strengthen our response.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by our leadership team to evaluate its effectiveness and to identify opportunities for improvement. The review considers developments in legislation, industry guidance, and feedback from employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders. Where necessary, we update our procedures, training, and supplier engagement to address emerging risks and to reinforce our commitment to ethical conduct.

This statement reflects the position and intentions of South Kensington Carpet Cleaners for the current financial year and will be updated each year to demonstrate our ongoing dedication to preventing modern slavery and protecting human rights in everything we do.