Cleaners Paddington Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Cleaners Paddington to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold human rights and to conduct business ethically, transparently, and with integrity in all our relationships.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Cleaners Paddington adopts a strict zero-tolerance stance towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not accept or condone any practice that exploits individuals, undermines their dignity, or removes their freedom. This applies to all aspects of our business, including the recruitment, employment, and management of our workforce and the procurement of goods and services from our suppliers.
All employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to adhere to this policy and to act in a manner that reflects our core values of respect, fairness, and accountability. Any behaviour or practice that conflicts with these principles is treated as a serious breach of our standards.
Our Workforce and Employment Practices
We are committed to providing a safe, fair, and inclusive working environment. Our recruitment processes are designed to prevent exploitation and ensure that all individuals work voluntarily and are free to leave employment in line with their contractual rights. We verify the identity and right to work of all staff and ensure that wages, working hours, and conditions comply with applicable laws and industry standards.
We do not tolerate any form of forced, bonded, or child labour. We promote a culture where dignity, respect, and open communication are fundamental. Managers receive guidance to recognise potential indicators of exploitation and to respond promptly and appropriately.
Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits
Cleaners Paddington understands that risks related to modern slavery may arise within supply chains, particularly in sectors associated with cleaning products, equipment, and outsourced services. We carefully select suppliers and expect them to share our commitment to ethical conduct and human rights.
We require suppliers to comply with all relevant legislation relating to modern slavery, human trafficking, and labour standards. Where appropriate, we incorporate modern slavery clauses into supplier agreements and request confirmation of their own policies and procedures.
We conduct periodic supplier assessments and audits to evaluate compliance with our standards. These audits may include reviewing documentation, policies, and training, as well as asking targeted questions about recruitment practices, use of agencies, and monitoring of subcontractors. Where concerns are identified, we work with suppliers on corrective actions, and we reserve the right to terminate relationships where serious breaches are not remedied.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We encourage all employees, temporary workers, contractors, and suppliers to raise any concerns about potential modern slavery or unethical behaviour without fear of retaliation. Concerns may relate to our own operations or those of our suppliers, subcontractors, or other business partners.
Cleaners Paddington maintains internal reporting channels that allow individuals to escalate issues confidentially to senior management. Reports are handled sensitively, investigated promptly, and addressed with appropriate corrective and protective measures. We are committed to protecting anyone who raises concerns in good faith, ensuring that they do not suffer adverse treatment as a result of speaking up.
We also encourage the use of external reporting routes, such as relevant regulatory or law enforcement bodies, where individuals feel this is appropriate or necessary.
Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement
To support the effective implementation of this statement, we provide guidance and information to managers and staff about modern slavery risks and warning signs. Training helps employees understand how modern slavery can occur in the cleaning industry and related supply chains, how to identify potential indicators of exploitation, and how to report concerns.
We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We review our policies, risk assessments, and supplier management processes to improve our approach, respond to emerging risks, and reflect changes in legislation or best practice.
Annual Review and Governance
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the leadership of Cleaners Paddington to ensure its ongoing relevance and effectiveness. As part of the annual review, we consider feedback from employees, audit findings, incident reports, and changes in our operations or supply chains. Where appropriate, we update our procedures and controls to strengthen our prevention and detection efforts.
This statement reflects the position of Cleaners Paddington for the current financial year and will be updated regularly to demonstrate our continued commitment to combating modern slavery in all its forms.