Modern Slavery Statement for West Norwood Carpet Cleaners

West Norwood 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 slavery, servitude, forced labour, and human trafficking in our operations and supply chain. As a responsible West Norwood carpet cleaning business, we recognise that even service-based organisations must remain alert to the risk of exploitation in sourcing, recruitment, transportation, and subcontracted work.

Our zero-tolerance policy means that any form of modern slavery is unacceptable within our organisation or among those who act on our behalf. We expect all employees, temporary workers, and business partners to uphold the same standards. This policy applies to hiring practices, working conditions, pay arrangements, and the selection of suppliers. We are committed to identifying and addressing risks early, and to taking decisive action where concerns arise.

We maintain a risk-based approach to due diligence across our supply chain. While our core services do not involve complex manufacturing, we still rely on suppliers for cleaning materials, equipment, transport support, and outsourced services. Each West Norwood carpet cleaning supplier is assessed for ethical labour practices, legal compliance, and transparency in ownership and workforce management. Where appropriate, we request written confirmation of compliance and may review supporting records before entering or renewing a commercial relationship.

Supplier Oversight and Ethical Standards

Our procurement process includes checks designed to reduce exposure to modern slavery risks. We prioritise suppliers that demonstrate fair employment practices, lawful recruitment processes, and clear worker protections. When required, we carry out supplier audits to examine labour standards, subcontracting arrangements, and evidence of responsible management. These audits may be announced or unannounced depending on the risk profile and nature of the relationship.

Any findings that suggest non-compliance are treated seriously. If a supplier fails to meet our standards, we will seek immediate corrective action and may suspend or end the relationship if improvements are not made. We also expect suppliers to cascade these expectations through their own supply chains. By reinforcing ethical standards, West Norwood Carpet Cleaners aims to ensure that our carpet cleaning services are supported by fair and lawful working practices.

Training is an important part of our prevention strategy. Relevant staff receive guidance on recognising indicators such as restricted movement, excessive working hours, wage withholding, coercion, and document retention. Managers are trained to review labour practices carefully when engaging subcontractors or seasonal support. This helps our West Norwood carpet cleaning teams understand how modern slavery risks can appear in everyday business activity, even where those risks are not immediately visible.

Reporting, Investigation, and Review

We encourage anyone working with or for us to raise concerns without fear of retaliation. Reporting channels are available for employees, contractors, and suppliers to report suspected breaches of this statement or any behaviour that may indicate exploitation. Concerns can be escalated through internal management routes, and all reports are handled confidentially where possible. We investigate allegations promptly and fairly, while protecting the rights and safety of those involved.

If a concern is substantiated, we will take appropriate action, which may include removing a supplier, reporting matters to the relevant authorities, or supporting remedial steps for affected individuals. Our approach is focused on prevention, accountability, and continuous improvement. We aim to ensure that our West Norwood carpet cleaning operations remain aligned with legal duties and ethical business principles.

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, current, and aligned with changes in law, business operations, and supply chain risk. During each review, we assess the effectiveness of our controls, audit results, training uptake, and any incidents or reported concerns. The outcome of that review informs updates to our policies, procedures, and supplier expectations, helping West Norwood Carpet Cleaners strengthen its commitment to eliminating modern slavery in all areas of activity.