Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Rubbish Collection Acton is committed to conducting all aspects of its operations in a manner that upholds human dignity, respects labour rights, and prevents any form of modern slavery or human trafficking. This statement sets out the steps we take to identify, prevent, and address risks of modern slavery within our own business and our supply chains.

We recognise that the environmental services and waste management sector can be exposed to risks relating to vulnerable workers, subcontracted labour, and complex supply chains. We therefore adopt a proactive and transparent approach to ensuring that forced labour, child labour, servitude, and human trafficking have no place in our organisation or in the organisations with which we work.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

Rubbish Collection Acton has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to every level of our business, including direct employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers. We will not knowingly enter into or maintain relationships with any party that engages in, or is suspected of engaging in, modern slavery practices.

Our zero-tolerance stance is reflected in our internal policies, staff handbook, supplier terms, and contractor agreements. All employees, from frontline collection teams to management, are expected to comply with our ethical standards and to support a culture where exploitation is never accepted or ignored. Breaches of this policy may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts, or reporting to relevant authorities.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles, fuel, equipment, uniforms, cleaning products, and outsourced services such as maintenance and specialist waste processing. We require our suppliers and contractors to operate in accordance with all applicable labour, human rights, and health and safety laws, and to uphold our commitment to eradicating modern slavery.

We undertake proportionate due diligence on existing and new suppliers, assessing factors such as geographic location, type of service or product, and the use of subcontracted or temporary labour. Where risks are identified, we seek additional information, request evidence of labour standards policies, and, where appropriate, conduct supplier audits.

Supplier audits may include document reviews, site visits, and discussions with management and workers to evaluate working conditions, recruitment practices, wage payments, and grievance procedures. Where non-compliance is found, we work with suppliers to implement corrective action plans within agreed timeframes. If significant issues are not resolved, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Rubbish Collection Acton encourages a culture of openness where concerns about modern slavery, exploitation, or unethical behaviour can be raised safely and confidentially. Employees, contractors, and third parties are encouraged to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery in our operations or supply chains.

Concerns can be raised through line managers, senior management, or our designated internal reporting contacts. Reports may be made anonymously where permitted by law. All reports are taken seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively. We are committed to ensuring that no one who raises a concern in good faith suffers any form of victimisation or retaliation.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We provide appropriate training and guidance to relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and recruitment, to help them recognise signs of modern slavery and understand how to respond. Awareness materials and internal communications reinforce the importance of vigilance and ethical conduct across the business.

We regularly review our internal policies, contract templates, and supplier requirements to strengthen protections against modern slavery. This includes considering industry guidance, emerging best practice, and feedback from audits and investigations.

Monitoring and Annual Review

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the management of Rubbish Collection Acton to ensure it remains effective, up to date, and aligned with our operational realities and legal obligations. As part of the review, we evaluate our risk assessments, audit findings, training activities, and any reported concerns or incidents.

Where improvements are identified, we update our procedures and communicate changes to staff and suppliers. By maintaining an ongoing cycle of review and improvement, Rubbish Collection Acton aims to play a meaningful role in preventing modern slavery and promoting fair and safe working conditions throughout our business and supply chains.