Modern Slavery Statement

Carpet Cleaners Balham Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Carpet Cleaners Balham 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 conducting our business in an ethical and responsible manner.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Carpet Cleaners Balham provides professional carpet, upholstery, and related cleaning services to residential and commercial customers. Our supply chain includes providers of cleaning products, equipment, personal protective equipment, transport, and facility-related services. While we consider our direct operations to be low risk, we acknowledge that risks can exist at multiple tiers of the supply chain, including in the manufacturing and distribution of goods we use.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

We have a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, and child labour. This applies to our employees, contractors, and all third parties with whom we work. We expect everyone associated with Carpet Cleaners Balham to uphold the highest standards of integrity and to comply with all applicable laws relating to labour and human rights.

We will not knowingly engage with any supplier or partner that is involved in, or fails to take adequate steps to prevent, modern slavery within its operations. Any confirmed breach of this policy may result in termination of contracts and, where appropriate, reporting to the relevant authorities.

Responsible Procurement and Supplier Audits

Our approach to responsible procurement is designed to identify, assess, and mitigate the risk of modern slavery in our supply chain. Before onboarding new key suppliers, we assess their policies and practices relating to labour standards, human rights, and ethical conduct. We seek assurance that they comply with all relevant legislation and operate fair and safe working conditions.

Carpet Cleaners Balham is implementing a programme of supplier audits for higher-risk categories. These audits may include reviewing documentation, requesting evidence of compliance, and, where feasible, on-site visits or independent assessments. Where we identify issues, we will work with suppliers to develop corrective action plans and monitor progress. If improvements are not made within an agreed timeframe, we reserve the right to reconsider or terminate the business relationship.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our management and staff. Relevant employees receive guidance on identifying signs of exploitation, understanding our zero-tolerance policy, and knowing how to report concerns. Responsibilities for implementing this statement sit with senior management, who are accountable for ensuring that our policies and procedures are effectively communicated and followed.

Managers involved in procurement or supplier management are expected to exercise enhanced diligence and to factor human rights considerations into purchasing decisions. All employees are reminded that everyone has a role in helping to prevent modern slavery and that any concerns will be taken seriously.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Carpet Cleaners Balham encourages anyone with concerns about possible modern slavery in our operations or supply chains to report those concerns without delay. Reports can be made to line managers, senior management, or through existing internal reporting mechanisms. We will treat all concerns sensitively and, where possible, confidentially.

We will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. All reports will be investigated promptly and, where necessary, appropriate remedial action will be taken. This may include engaging with suppliers, improving internal controls, providing additional training, or escalating matters to external authorities.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

We recognise that combating modern slavery requires continuous effort and improvement. We will regularly monitor the effectiveness of our actions through reviews of supplier performance, internal feedback, and developments in best practice and legislation.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually by senior management to ensure it remains current, effective, and proportionate to the nature and scale of our operations. Any significant changes in our business model, supply chain, or risk profile will trigger an earlier review where necessary. Updated versions of this statement will reflect our ongoing commitment to reducing the risk of modern slavery and promoting fair and ethical working practices throughout Carpet Cleaners Balham and our supply chain.