Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
South Kensington Carpet Cleaners is committed to operating responsibly and ethically in all areas of our business. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise our obligation to respect human rights and to ensure that the people who work for and with us are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect.
Our Business and Supply Chains
South Kensington Carpet Cleaners provides professional carpet, upholstery, and related cleaning services to residential and commercial customers. Our operations rely on a combination of directly employed staff and approved third-party suppliers, including providers of cleaning products, equipment, and specialist services. We understand that modern slavery risks can exist at multiple levels of a supply chain, and we are committed to identifying, assessing, and addressing those risks.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
We have a clear zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation in any form. This applies to all aspects of our business and to everyone we work with. We will not knowingly engage with any supplier or contractor that fails to uphold basic human rights or that is involved in practices that could constitute modern slavery. If credible concerns arise, we will take prompt and decisive action, which may include terminating relationships and reporting matters to relevant authorities where appropriate.
Standards for Employees and Workers
All employees of South Kensington Carpet Cleaners are recruited in line with fair and transparent processes. We ensure that workers are free to choose employment, receive clear information about their rights, and are paid in line with applicable laws. We do not withhold identity documents, we do not charge recruitment fees, and we do not tolerate any form of coercion, intimidation, or harassment. Our expectations are communicated during onboarding and reinforced through ongoing supervision and management oversight.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We expect our suppliers and contractors to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. As part of our supplier due diligence, we assess the ethical standards and labour practices of our key suppliers. Where appropriate, we request information about their own modern slavery policies, workforce conditions, and sourcing practices.
We reserve the right to conduct audits or inspections of suppliers and their facilities, either directly or through independent third parties. These audits may include interviews with workers, review of employment records, and evaluation of health, safety, and welfare conditions. If non-compliance is identified, we will require corrective action within a reasonable timeframe and may suspend or end the relationship if improvements are not made.
Training and Awareness
We are committed to building awareness of modern slavery risks among our management teams and staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management. Training and guidance materials are used to help employees recognise potential indicators of exploitation, understand our zero-tolerance policy, and know how to respond if they suspect any form of modern slavery.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We encourage employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised confidentially through our internal reporting channels or directly to senior management. Reports will be treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled with sensitivity. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith.
Continuous Improvement and Risk Management
We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires continuous improvement. We regularly review our risk assessment methods, due diligence procedures, and audit activities to enhance their effectiveness. We also remain attentive to external guidance, industry best practice, and changes in legislation, and we adapt our approach accordingly.
Annual Review and Approval
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed at least once a year to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and effective. As part of the annual review, we assess the actions taken during the year, the outcomes achieved, and any areas where our approach can be strengthened. The statement is approved by the leadership of South Kensington Carpet Cleaners and represents our ongoing public commitment to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships.
By publishing this statement, South Kensington Carpet Cleaners reaffirms its determination to help prevent modern slavery and human trafficking and to promote fair and responsible working practices across our operations and supply chains.
