Waste Collection Barnes Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Waste Collection Barnes in respect of the financial year ending 31 December. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights, and we are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships.

Waste Collection Barnes provides waste collection, recycling and related environmental services across our operating regions. Our activities rely on a network of suppliers, subcontractors, and service providers, including vehicle maintenance, equipment manufacturers, protective clothing suppliers, facilities management and labour agencies. We understand that some of these areas can carry a higher risk of labour exploitation, and we are committed to identifying and managing those risks proactively.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

We adopt a clear zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, servitude, debt bondage and human trafficking. This applies to every part of our business and to all individuals working for or on behalf of Waste Collection Barnes, including employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers. We will not knowingly enter into or maintain relationships with any organisation or individual involved in modern slavery practices.

Our internal policies on ethics, conduct, recruitment and procurement reinforce this zero-tolerance stance. We require that all employment is voluntary and that workers are free to leave their employment upon reasonable notice. We do not tolerate the withholding of passports or identification documents, the charging of recruitment fees, or any form of coercion or intimidation.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

As part of our efforts to prevent modern slavery in our supply chains, we apply a risk-based due diligence process to our existing and new suppliers. Suppliers are required to confirm that they comply with all applicable laws relating to modern slavery and human trafficking and that they maintain appropriate policies and controls.

Where we identify higher-risk categories, such as labour providers, cleaning contractors, uniform and equipment manufacturers, or overseas material suppliers, we may require additional assurances and supporting documentation. This can include detailed questionnaires, declarations of compliance, and evidence of labour standards.

We reserve the right to conduct supplier audits, which may be desk-based reviews or onsite visits, depending on the level of risk. These audits assess working conditions, recruitment practices, documentation, and grievance mechanisms. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to demonstrate adequate controls, we will work with them to improve their practices within a defined timeframe. Where serious or persistent non-compliance is identified, we may suspend or terminate the relationship.

Training, Awareness and Reporting Channels

We are focused on ensuring that our staff understand the risks of modern slavery and are equipped to identify and report concerns. Key employees in procurement, contract management, operations and human resources receive training on modern slavery indicators and appropriate response procedures. New starters in relevant roles are introduced to our expectations as part of their induction.

We encourage all employees, contractors, and suppliers to raise concerns about any issue or suspicion of modern slavery at the earliest possible stage. Concerns can be reported to line managers, the human resources team, or through our confidential reporting channels. Reports may be made anonymously where permitted by local laws. All reports are taken seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively, with no tolerance for victimisation of any individual who raises a concern in good faith.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Waste Collection Barnes is committed to the continuous improvement of our controls and practices in relation to modern slavery. We periodically review our risk assessments, due diligence procedures, supplier requirements and training materials to reflect evolving laws, guidance, and best practice. Lessons learned from audits, investigations, and staff feedback are used to strengthen our approach.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed and updated annually by our senior management team. The review considers changes in our operations, emerging risks in our supply chains, and the effectiveness of current measures. Updated statements are communicated internally and made available externally to ensure transparency and accountability in our efforts to combat modern slavery and human trafficking.