Modern Slavery Statement for Waste Collection Waterloo

Waste Collection Waterloo is firmly committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our operations and supply chains. This Modern Slavery Statement explains the principles, processes, and controls we have in place to identify, prevent, and address any risk of modern slavery associated with our business activities.

Modern slavery includes forced labour, bonded or involuntary labour, human trafficking, and all forms of exploitation in which a person cannot refuse or leave work because of threats, violence, deception, or abuse of power. We recognise that the waste management and logistics sectors can be vulnerable to such practices, especially where subcontracting, agency labour, or complex supply chains are involved.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, and labour exploitation. This policy applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers engaged by Waste Collection Waterloo. No form of modern slavery will be tolerated in our own operations or those of any party working on our behalf.

All staff are made aware that compliance with this policy is a condition of employment or engagement with the company. Any breach or suspected breach will be treated as a serious disciplinary matter and may result in termination of employment or contract, as well as referral to the relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our Supply Chain Standards

Our supply chains include providers of vehicles and equipment, maintenance and repair services, fuel and consumables, uniforms and protective equipment, technology systems, and labour and subcontracted services. We are committed to working only with suppliers and partners who share our values and who can demonstrate robust practices to prevent modern slavery.

We expect all suppliers to comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws, to prohibit forced or compulsory labour, and to ensure that workers are employed freely, fairly, and voluntarily. We communicate these expectations as part of our procurement and contract management processes.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

We conduct proportionate due diligence on suppliers based on risk, size, and the nature of the services provided. This may include pre-qualification questionnaires, written confirmations of compliance with modern slavery legislation, and review of relevant policies and procedures.

Where higher risks are identified, we undertake more detailed assessments, which can include on-site visits, interviews with management, and requests for evidence of workforce checks, right-to-work verification, recruitment practices, and worker grievance mechanisms. We reserve the right to audit suppliers at any time to verify compliance with our modern slavery requirements.

If a supplier is found to be in breach of our standards, we will require prompt corrective action. Failure to address concerns to our satisfaction may lead to suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

All employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any concerns or suspicions relating to modern slavery or human trafficking connected with Waste Collection Waterloo or our supply chains. We provide confidential reporting channels so that concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation.

Reports may be made to line managers, senior management, or a designated compliance contact within the company. All reports will be taken seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly and objectively. Where appropriate, we will engage with law enforcement or specialist organisations to ensure that victims are protected and support is provided.

Retaliation, victimisation, or any adverse treatment of individuals who raise concerns in good faith is strictly prohibited and will be treated as a disciplinary matter.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We provide training and guidance to relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and workforce supervision, to help them identify indicators of modern slavery and respond appropriately. Awareness of modern slavery risks is incorporated into our broader approach to health, safety, and ethical conduct.

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We are committed to continuously reviewing and strengthening our policies and procedures, enhancing supplier engagement, and updating staff training as best practice and legal requirements evolve.

Annual Review and Approval

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and reflective of our current operations and risk profile. As part of the annual review, we assess any incidents reported, lessons learned from investigations or audits, and the effectiveness of our due diligence and training measures.

The statement is approved by the senior management of Waste Collection Waterloo, who take overall responsibility for its implementation and for ensuring that appropriate resources are allocated to uphold our zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery. By continuing to develop and enforce these measures, we aim to contribute to the broader eradication of modern slavery in our sector and beyond.