Waste Disposal Acton Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Waste Disposal Acton and 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 fundamental violation of human rights, and we are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Waste Disposal Acton has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, and child labour. This policy applies to every aspect of our activities, from our direct employees to our contractors, agents, and suppliers. We are committed to ensuring that anyone who works for or with us is treated with dignity, paid fairly, and employed voluntarily.

We communicate our zero-tolerance stance internally through staff briefings and training, and externally through our contractual expectations and supplier onboarding processes. Any indication that a person or organisation associated with us is involved in modern slavery will be treated as a serious breach of trust and may lead to termination of the relationship and, where appropriate, reporting to the relevant authorities.

Risk Assessment and Supplier Standards

Our operations involve waste collection, transfer, and disposal, often relying on a network of third-party suppliers, including transport providers, equipment manufacturers, maintenance contractors, and labour agencies. We acknowledge that some of these areas may carry higher risks of labour exploitation, especially where lower-skilled or temporary work is involved.

To manage these risks, we require suppliers to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. Our standard terms and conditions include obligations relating to modern slavery, safe working conditions, and lawful employment practices. We expect suppliers to have their own procedures to identify, prevent, and report modern slavery in their organisations and supply chains.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

Waste Disposal Acton operates a risk-based supplier due diligence process. New and existing suppliers may be subject to checks that can include questionnaires, requests for supporting documentation, and, where appropriate, on-site visits. We assess factors such as the nature of the work, geographical location, reliance on subcontracting, and use of agency or migrant labour.

Where higher risk is identified, we may carry out more detailed audits focused on labour practices, recruitment methods, working hours, wage records, and worker accommodation where relevant. If any non-compliance is identified, we will work with the supplier to develop a corrective action plan with clear timescales. Failure to implement these improvements or any evidence of modern slavery will result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to Waste Disposal Acton. Concerns can be raised with line managers, senior management, or through our confidential whistleblowing reporting routes. Reports can be made anonymously, and we do not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith.

All reports are taken seriously and investigated promptly and sensitively. Where there is evidence of wrongdoing, we will take appropriate remedial action, which may include supporting affected individuals, terminating contracts, improving internal controls, and notifying law enforcement or regulatory bodies.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We provide training and guidance to managers and staff who are involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management so they can identify potential indicators of modern slavery and know how to respond. We aim to build awareness across the business so that everyone understands their role in preventing exploitation.

We regularly review our internal policies, supplier requirements, and training content to reflect evolving best practice and changes in legislation. Feedback from audits, investigations, and employee suggestions is used to improve our approach and strengthen our controls.

Annual Review and Governance

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually by Waste Disposal Acton’s senior management to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with our values and legal obligations. As part of this review, we assess the effectiveness of our risk assessments, supplier audits, training programmes, and reporting mechanisms.

Where areas for improvement are identified, we set objectives for the coming year and allocate responsibilities for implementation. Our ambition is to continuously enhance our systems to help ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking have no place in our business or our supply chains.