Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps taken by Cleaner Merton to identify, prevent, and address modern slavery and human trafficking risks within our operations and supply chains. Cleaner Merton recognises that modern slavery is a serious violation of fundamental human rights and is committed to conducting all aspects of its business with integrity and respect for the dignity of every person.

Our Organisation and Supply Chains

Cleaner Merton provides cleaning and related services across a range of commercial and community settings. Our activities rely on a network of suppliers and contractors that provide cleaning products, equipment, uniforms, facilities management services, and labour-related services. We recognise that certain segments of our sector and supply chains may be at higher risk of labour exploitation, and we are committed to understanding and reducing these risks.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

Cleaner Merton adopts a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, debt bondage, and child labour. Any form of coercion, exploitation, or abuse is strictly prohibited. We expect the same high standards from all individuals and organisations we work with, including employees, agency workers, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers at all tiers.

We require suppliers to act ethically and in full compliance with applicable laws and regulations relating to employment, labour rights, and human rights. Failure to meet these expectations may result in termination of contracts or suspension of business relationships.

Policies and Governance

Our approach to modern slavery risk is supported by internal policies that cover ethical conduct, recruitment, health and safety, whistleblowing, and grievance procedures. These policies are approved and overseen by senior management, who are responsible for ensuring that modern slavery considerations are integrated into strategic decisions and day-to-day operations.

We aim to embed respect for human rights into our organisational culture by clearly communicating our zero-tolerance stance and by promoting responsible and transparent practices throughout our business.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

Cleaner Merton operates a risk-based approach to supplier management. When engaging new suppliers, we assess the nature of the goods and services provided, the geographic location, and the labour practices associated with the sector. Suppliers may be required to confirm compliance with our modern slavery standards and to provide information on their own policies and controls.

We conduct periodic supplier audits and reviews, focusing on higher-risk categories. These may involve requests for documentation, on-site visits where appropriate, and follow-up actions to address any concerns. Where non-compliance or weak controls are identified, we work with suppliers to implement corrective measures within clear timeframes, or we reconsider the relationship if improvements are not made.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

Cleaner Merton encourages employees, workers, contractors, and other stakeholders to raise concerns about potential or actual instances of modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be reported through established internal reporting lines, including management, human resources, or designated whistleblowing channels.

All reports are treated seriously and handled sensitively. We will investigate concerns and, where appropriate, take corrective and remedial action. We are committed to protecting individuals who raise concerns in good faith from retaliation, victimisation, or adverse treatment.

Training and Awareness

We recognise that effective prevention of modern slavery requires knowledge and awareness across our workforce. Cleaner Merton provides training and guidance to relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and recruitment, to help them recognise indicators of modern slavery and understand how to respond to concerns.

We also seek to raise general awareness among all staff about our zero-tolerance policy and their responsibilities to uphold human rights and ethical standards in their daily work.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

Cleaner Merton is committed to ongoing improvement in the way we identify and address modern slavery risks. We monitor the effectiveness of our actions by reviewing supplier performance, analysing reported concerns, and considering feedback from internal and external stakeholders.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement will be reviewed annually by senior management. The review process will consider changes in our operations, evolving legal requirements, best practice guidance, and lessons learned from our due diligence and investigations. Where necessary, we will update our policies, procedures, and training to strengthen our prevention and response measures.

Approval of this Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement has been approved by the leadership of Cleaner Merton, who take overall responsibility for ensuring that it is implemented and maintained across the organisation. It reflects our ongoing commitment to respecting human rights, promoting fair and safe working conditions, and contributing to the elimination of modern slavery in all its forms.