Modern Slavery Statement for Whitton Carpet Cleaners

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Whitton Carpet Cleaners has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting business ethically and responsibly, and to respecting the human rights and dignity of all individuals connected with our services.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Whitton Carpet Cleaners has a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. We do not accept, support, or condone any practice that undermines the freedom, safety, or wellbeing of individuals. This commitment applies to all aspects of our business, including our direct operations, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers of goods and services.

All managers and supervisors are responsible for promoting this zero-tolerance policy and ensuring that every member of staff understands our expectations. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts, and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Whitton Carpet Cleaners provides domestic and commercial carpet and upholstery cleaning services. Our supply chains primarily consist of suppliers of cleaning products, machinery, vehicles, workwear, and ancillary services such as equipment maintenance and waste disposal.

We recognise that risks of modern slavery can exist at multiple levels of the supply chain, especially where products or raw materials originate from higher-risk sectors or regions. We are therefore committed to knowing our suppliers, understanding their practices, and working only with partners who share our values.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We undertake due diligence on new and existing suppliers that are considered material to our operations. This process may include assessment of their policies, statements on labour practices, and their own supply chain controls. We aim to work with suppliers who can demonstrate clear commitments to ethical conduct, fair working conditions, and compliance with modern slavery legislation.

Where appropriate and proportionate to the level of risk, Whitton Carpet Cleaners reserves the right to conduct audits or request evidence to verify that suppliers are meeting our standards. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to provide adequate assurances, or if there is reason to believe that modern slavery is present, we will investigate, engage with the supplier to seek corrective action, or terminate the relationship where corrective measures are not sufficient or forthcoming.

Staff Awareness and Responsibility

We work to ensure that our staff understand the importance of preventing modern slavery and the role they play in identifying concerns. Managers are responsible for communicating our values, monitoring working conditions within our direct operations, and promoting an environment where individuals feel safe to raise issues.

All workers must comply with our policies, treat colleagues and third parties with respect, and report any suspicion of exploitation, unfair treatment, or unsafe working conditions encountered in the course of their duties.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Whitton Carpet Cleaners encourages all employees, contractors, and other stakeholders to report concerns related to modern slavery or human trafficking without fear of retaliation. Reports can be made through internal management channels or by raising concerns with senior leadership. We do not tolerate victimisation of any person who raises a concern in good faith.

All reports of suspected modern slavery will be taken seriously, treated confidentially as far as reasonably possible, and investigated promptly. Where appropriate, we will engage with external bodies or authorities to address any verified issues and to protect affected individuals.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility that requires continuous vigilance. Whitton Carpet Cleaners is committed to regularly reviewing the effectiveness of our policies, procedures, and due diligence processes to strengthen our approach and address emerging risks.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually by senior management to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. Updates may be made more frequently if there are significant changes in our business operations, supply chains, or the regulatory environment.

By maintaining this Modern Slavery Statement and the measures it describes, Whitton Carpet Cleaners reaffirms its commitment to conducting business responsibly and to contributing to the eradication of modern slavery in all its forms.