Waste Disposal Ilford Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Waste Disposal Ilford to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious crime and a grave violation of fundamental human rights. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery is not taking place anywhere in our business or in our supply chains.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Waste Disposal Ilford adopts a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, servitude, and child labour. This applies to all aspects of our activities, including waste collection, transfer, treatment, recycling, and associated administrative and support services. We expect the same high standards from all of our contractors, suppliers, and other business partners and will not knowingly engage with any organisation involved in or connected to modern slavery practices.

All employees, regardless of role or seniority, are required to act in line with this policy and to report any concerns. Failure to comply with our zero-tolerance policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal or termination of contract.

Risk Management and Supply Chain Due Diligence

Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles and equipment, personal protective equipment, recycling and disposal facilities, agency labour providers, and professional services. We recognise that certain sectors, such as waste handling, logistics, and temporary labour, can present higher risks of labour exploitation. We therefore conduct risk-based screening and due diligence on new and existing suppliers.

Before engaging a supplier, we assess their labour practices, working conditions, health and safety performance, and compliance with relevant legislation. Where appropriate, we request evidence of their own modern slavery policies and procedures. We prioritise suppliers that demonstrate a strong ethical track record and a commitment to continuous improvement in labour standards.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

To ensure that our zero-tolerance policy is effectively implemented, Waste Disposal Ilford conducts periodic audits of key suppliers and contractors. These audits may be undertaken by our internal team or by independent auditors. Audit activities can include site visits, document reviews, worker interviews, and verification of employment and right-to-work records.

Where non-compliance or areas of concern are identified, we work with suppliers to agree corrective action plans with clear timelines. Serious or repeated failure to address concerns may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship. We maintain records of audit findings and use these to inform future procurement and risk assessments.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers to speak up if they suspect any form of modern slavery or unethical labour practice in our operations or supply chains. Concerns can be raised through line managers, our human resources team, or a designated senior manager responsible for overseeing ethical compliance.

Reports can be made confidentially, and we will treat all disclosures sensitively and promptly. Retaliation against any individual who raises a genuine concern in good faith is strictly prohibited. All credible allegations will be investigated and, where appropriate, reported to the relevant authorities. We will cooperate fully with law enforcement and regulatory agencies in any investigations related to modern slavery.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities

We provide relevant training to managers and staff involved in procurement, contract management, and recruitment to help them identify signs of modern slavery and understand our reporting procedures. Awareness materials are made available to all employees to reinforce our standards and expectations.

Senior management has overall responsibility for ensuring this statement is implemented and for reviewing the effectiveness of our controls. Managers at all levels are responsible for ensuring those reporting to them understand and comply with this policy and the procedures designed to reduce the risk of modern slavery.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. As part of the review, we consider audit findings, reported concerns, changes in our operations or supply chain, and stakeholder feedback. Where necessary, we update our policies, training, and due diligence processes to strengthen our approach.

Waste Disposal Ilford is committed to continuous improvement in tackling modern slavery risks. By working collaboratively with employees, suppliers, customers, and regulators, we aim to ensure that our services are delivered responsibly and that human rights are respected throughout our business and supply chains.