Clapham Carpet Cleaners Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Clapham Carpet Cleaners to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We acknowledge our responsibility to respect human rights and to act with integrity in all our relationships, whether with employees, contractors, clients, or suppliers.
Clapham Carpet Cleaners provides carpet and upholstery cleaning and related services. Although we operate in a sector generally considered to be at lower risk of complex global supply chains, we recognise that modern slavery can occur in any industry and at any point in the supply chain. We are committed to continual improvement in identifying and addressing these risks.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
We adopt a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, child labour, servitude, and human trafficking. This means that we will not knowingly engage with or support any business or individual involved in such practices.
All employees, managers, and contractors are expected to uphold this commitment and to act in a manner consistent with our values of transparency, fairness, and respect. Any breach of this policy by our people may result in disciplinary action, which can include termination of employment or contract.
Our Supply Chain and Supplier Standards
Our supply chain includes providers of cleaning products, equipment, personal protective equipment, vehicles, and related maintenance and support services. We expect all suppliers to operate ethically, comply with applicable labour laws, and ensure that no forced or trafficked labour is used in the production or delivery of goods and services provided to us.
We communicate our expectations to suppliers through our purchasing processes and contractual terms. Where appropriate, we seek assurances that suppliers have their own modern slavery policies or equivalent measures in place. We reserve the right to terminate relationships with suppliers that fail to meet our standards or that do not take adequate corrective actions when concerns are raised.
Supplier Audits and Risk Assessment
Clapham Carpet Cleaners undertakes proportionate risk-based assessments of suppliers, focusing on the type of goods or services provided, the geographic location, and the nature of the workforce involved. We prioritise deeper scrutiny for higher-risk categories, such as products originating from regions or sectors with known labour concerns.
Where risks are identified, we may carry out additional due diligence. This can include requesting further information about labour practices, conducting site visits where feasible, or seeking independent evidence of compliance. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to demonstrate adequate controls against modern slavery, we will consider this a serious compliance issue and may discontinue the business relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We encourage all employees, workers in our supply chain, and any other stakeholders to speak up if they suspect any form of modern slavery connected to Clapham Carpet Cleaners. Concerns can be raised directly with line managers or senior management, or through any existing internal reporting or whistleblowing mechanisms made available to staff.
We take all reports seriously and will investigate concerns promptly and sensitively. Individuals raising genuine concerns will be protected from retaliation or detrimental treatment. Where appropriate, we will work with external agencies and authorities to support investigations and remedial actions.
Training and Awareness
We aim to increase awareness of modern slavery risks among our employees, particularly those involved in procurement, supplier management, and supervision of contractors. This includes providing guidance on recognising indicators of forced labour and human trafficking, and on the procedures for escalating concerns.
By building knowledge and awareness within our team, we seek to ensure that everyone understands their role in preventing modern slavery and supporting ethical business conduct.
Monitoring, Accountability and Annual Review
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior management of Clapham Carpet Cleaners. They are accountable for ensuring that appropriate policies, controls, and reporting mechanisms are in place and that these remain effective as our business and the external environment evolve.
This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, business operations, or identified risks. As part of each review, we will consider feedback from stakeholders, the outcomes of any investigations or supplier audits, and emerging best practice. Where necessary, we will update our policies, procedures, and training to strengthen our response to modern slavery.
By publishing this statement, Clapham Carpet Cleaners reaffirms its commitment to conducting business in a responsible and ethical manner and to working collaboratively with staff, suppliers, and clients to help eradicate modern slavery in all its forms.