Rubbish Collection Hackney Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Rubbish Collection Hackney in respect of the financial year ending 31 March 2025. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our own operations and in our supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold fundamental human rights and to conduct business in a way that respects the dignity and wellbeing of every individual.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Rubbish Collection Hackney provides waste and recycling services to households, businesses, and community organisations. Our operations rely on a workforce employed directly by us and by carefully selected contractors and suppliers. Our supply chains include vehicles and equipment, uniforms and protective clothing, cleaning and maintenance services, and a range of professional and support services. We understand that some of these areas, particularly those involving manual labour, logistics, and outsourced services, can carry a higher risk of labour exploitation.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking in any form. This policy applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers. We will not knowingly work with any organisation or individual that is involved in modern slavery or that fails to take reasonable steps to prevent it in their own business and supply chains.

Our zero-tolerance approach is reflected in our contracts, our codes of conduct, and our day-to-day decision-making. Where we identify concerns, we will take proportionate and prompt action, which may include suspending or terminating relationships, reporting issues to the relevant authorities, and cooperating fully with any investigations.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers to uphold high standards of ethical conduct and to comply with all applicable labour and human rights laws. Our procurement processes include due diligence checks designed to identify and reduce the risk of modern slavery. New suppliers are assessed on their labour practices, policies, and track record in managing human rights risks.

We conduct risk-based supplier audits to verify compliance with our standards. These audits may include document reviews, site visits, and confidential discussions with workers, either directly or through third-party auditors. Where non-compliance or potential indicators of modern slavery are identified, we require corrective action plans with clear timelines. Failure to implement improvements may result in the suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Protection

We encourage anyone connected with our operations or supply chains to report concerns about modern slavery without fear of retaliation. Employees, agency workers, and contractors can raise issues through their line manager, our HR team, or an established whistleblowing channel. Suppliers are required to provide their workers with safe and accessible ways to report concerns, and to inform us promptly of any suspected cases.

All reports are treated seriously and handled sensitively. We will investigate concerns as appropriate, seek to protect anyone raising an issue in good faith, and take steps to support potential victims, which may include referral to specialist support organisations and cooperation with law enforcement.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We provide training and guidance to relevant staff, including managers, supervisors, and procurement personnel, to help them recognise the signs of modern slavery and understand how to respond. Awareness materials are made available across our sites so that workers know their rights and how to seek help.

We are committed to improving our practices over time. This includes refining our risk assessments, enhancing supplier engagement, and learning from external guidance and industry best practice. We will continue to review our policies and procedures to ensure they remain effective in preventing and addressing modern slavery risks.

Annual Review and Approval

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to assess progress and identify areas for further action. The review considers audit findings, incident reports, supplier feedback, and any changes in legal or regulatory requirements. Updated statements will reflect the steps taken and planned to strengthen our approach.

This Statement has been approved by the senior management of Rubbish Collection Hackney, who accept overall responsibility for its implementation and for ensuring that the organisation acts with integrity and vigilance in tackling modern slavery in all its forms.