Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps taken by Waste Collection Barnet to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold human rights and to act ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Waste Collection Barnet has a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour in any form. We are committed to ensuring that all work is undertaken voluntarily, that workers are treated with dignity and respect, and that our business does not contribute to any form of exploitation.

This commitment applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts, or reporting to the relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Waste Collection Barnet provides waste collection and related environmental services across the Barnet area. Our supply chains include providers of vehicles, fuel, uniforms, equipment, maintenance services, technology systems, and other operational support services. We understand that the risk of modern slavery can exist at various stages of these supply chains, particularly where subcontracting, low-skilled labour, or high-risk jurisdictions are involved.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

We expect all suppliers and contractors to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. As part of our supplier onboarding and renewal processes, we require confirmation that suppliers comply with all applicable laws relating to modern slavery and human trafficking and that they have appropriate policies and controls in place.

Where we identify suppliers operating in higher-risk sectors or locations, we may request additional information, including details of their recruitment practices, use of labour agencies, worker welfare arrangements, and grievance mechanisms. We reserve the right to refuse to engage, or to discontinue engagement, with any supplier that does not meet our standards or fails to take adequate corrective action.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

Waste Collection Barnet conducts proportionate audits and checks on selected suppliers, focusing on those assessed as higher risk. These audits may include reviewing documentation, requesting evidence of right-to-work checks, and seeking assurances on wage payments, working hours, and employment conditions.

Where practical, we may request site visits or independent assessments to verify compliance. Non-compliance identified during audits will be addressed through corrective action plans with clear timelines. Persistent or serious non-compliance may lead to the suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone with concerns about modern slavery or human trafficking in relation to Waste Collection Barnet or our supply chains to raise them without fear of reprisal. Employees can report concerns to their line manager, a senior manager, or through our confidential whistleblowing arrangements.

Suppliers, contractors, and members of the public may raise concerns directly with our management team. All reports will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and handled as sensitively and confidentially as possible. Where appropriate, issues will be escalated to senior leadership and external authorities.

Training and Awareness

We aim to increase awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and frontline operations. Training and guidance focus on recognising signs of exploitation, understanding our policies, and knowing how to report concerns.

Governance and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior management of Waste Collection Barnet. We review this statement and our underlying procedures at least annually to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, and our business operations.

As part of the annual review, we assess the effectiveness of our measures, considering any reported incidents, audit findings, supplier engagement, and feedback from stakeholders. Where opportunities for improvement are identified, we update our policies, processes, and training accordingly to strengthen our ongoing response to the risk of modern slavery.