Modern Slavery Statement for Rubbish Collection Highbury

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Rubbish Collection Highbury takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that waste management and associated services can involve complex supply networks, and we are committed to ensuring that every part of our business is conducted ethically, transparently, and in full respect of human rights.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Rubbish Collection Highbury has a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, and all forms of servitude. This policy applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers who contribute to the services we provide.

We will not knowingly work with any organisation or individual involved in modern slavery. Any suspicion or evidence of such practices will result in immediate investigation and may lead to the termination of contracts and notification of relevant authorities where appropriate.

Governance and Responsibilities

The senior management team at Rubbish Collection Highbury is responsible for overseeing our approach to modern slavery risk management. Managers at all levels are required to support this policy and ensure that it is effectively communicated, understood, and implemented within their teams.

All employees share responsibility for upholding our standards. Everyone is expected to remain alert to potential indicators of exploitation, to raise concerns promptly, and to cooperate fully with any internal or external investigations.

Supply Chain Due Diligence and Supplier Audits

We understand that the greatest risk of modern slavery often arises within supply chains. To address this, we adopt a risk-based due diligence approach when selecting and managing suppliers, subcontractors, and service providers.

Our approach includes carrying out supplier assessments that may request information on working conditions, recruitment practices, pay structures, and worker welfare. Where we identify higher risk, we undertake more detailed checks, including site visits where feasible.

We reserve the right to audit existing suppliers to verify compliance with our zero-tolerance policy. Audits may be announced or unannounced and can cover worker documentation, working hours, wage records, and grievance mechanisms. Failure to meet our standards may result in corrective action plans, closer monitoring, or the ending of the business relationship.

Employee Awareness, Training, and Conduct

We provide training to relevant employees to help them recognise signs of modern slavery and understand the steps they should take if they have concerns. This includes those involved in procurement, contract management, and frontline service delivery.

Our employee code of conduct sets out expectations regarding ethical behaviour, respect, and compliance with legal and company requirements. Any breach of this policy, including complicity in modern slavery, will be treated as serious misconduct and may result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone associated with Rubbish Collection Highbury to speak up if they suspect modern slavery or unethical practices. Concerns can be reported through internal management channels, via our confidential whistleblowing arrangements, or to external authorities where appropriate.

All reports are taken seriously and will be investigated promptly and impartially. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith, whether or not it is ultimately substantiated.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We are committed to continually improving our approach to preventing modern slavery. Each year, we review this statement, our policies, and our due diligence processes to assess their effectiveness and identify opportunities for enhancement.

The annual review considers any incidents reported, audit findings, changes in legislation, and evolving best practice. As part of this process, we may update our training, refine supplier requirements, or introduce new controls where appropriate.

This statement has been approved by the management of Rubbish Collection Highbury and will be reviewed and updated on an annual basis to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and aligned with our commitment to protecting human rights.