Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Introduction

Waste Collection Harrow is committed to conducting its business ethically, responsibly, and in full compliance with all applicable laws relating to modern slavery and human trafficking. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers engaged by Waste Collection Harrow.

Our Business and Supply Chains

We provide waste collection, recycling, and related environmental services to households, businesses, and public sector organisations in Harrow and surrounding areas. Our supply chains include providers of vehicles, fuel, personal protective equipment, cleaning products, IT systems, facilities management, and temporary labour. We recognise that some of these areas, particularly outsourced services and labour provision, can carry a higher risk of modern slavery and human trafficking.

Zero Tolerance Approach

Waste Collection Harrow has a zero-tolerance policy to modern slavery and human trafficking in all its forms. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation or individual involved in forced, bonded, or compulsory labour, servitude, or human trafficking. Any breach of this policy by employees may lead to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Any breach by suppliers or contractors may result in contract termination and, where appropriate, reporting to the relevant authorities.

Policies and Governance

Our zero-tolerance approach is supported by internal policies covering ethical conduct, recruitment, whistleblowing, and supplier management. These policies are communicated to employees and form part of our governance framework. Senior management has overall responsibility for ensuring that these policies are implemented and that adequate resources are allocated to address the risks of modern slavery and human trafficking across the business.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We expect all suppliers and contractors to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. As part of our supplier due diligence, we assess the risk profile of new and existing suppliers based on factors such as sector, geography, and the nature of goods or services provided. Higher-risk suppliers may be required to complete more detailed questionnaires and provide evidence of their own anti-slavery measures.

We reserve the right to conduct audits of suppliers where we identify elevated risk or where concerns have been raised. These audits may involve site visits, document reviews, and interviews with management and workers. Where non-compliance is identified, we will work with the supplier to agree corrective actions and timescales. Failure to remedy issues promptly and effectively may lead to suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Waste Collection Harrow encourages employees, contractors, and other stakeholders to speak up if they have concerns about modern slavery or human trafficking in our operations or supply chains. Concerns can be raised with line managers, senior management, or through our confidential reporting channels. Reports may be made anonymously, and all concerns will be treated seriously and investigated promptly.

We do not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. Where appropriate, we will cooperate fully with law enforcement and other competent authorities in investigating suspected cases of modern slavery or human trafficking.

Training and Awareness

We provide training and guidance to relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and recruitment, to help them identify and address modern slavery risks. Awareness materials are made available to staff to reinforce the importance of vigilance and responsible sourcing. We regularly review the effectiveness of our training to ensure it remains relevant and targeted.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking. We monitor our performance through supplier assessments, incident reporting, and feedback from stakeholders. Our Modern Slavery Statement and related procedures are reviewed at least annually, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, industry best practice, or our risk profile.

This statement has been approved by the leadership of Waste Collection Harrow and represents our ongoing commitment to combating modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our business and supply chains.