Modern Slavery Statement — Commercial Waste Woolwich
Commercial Waste Woolwich is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking across our operations and supply chain. This statement describes our zero-tolerance approach and the practical steps we take to reduce the risk of exploitation in the delivery of waste management and recycling services. We recognise our responsibility as a local provider of Woolwich commercial waste and related services to uphold human rights, protect workers and ensure ethical procurement.
We operate a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, and human trafficking. Our zero-tolerance commitment is embedded in our procurement procedures and contractual terms. All staff and contractors are required to adhere to these standards and any breach will result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of contracts or employment.
To support transparency across the Woolwich commercial waste supply chain, we conduct risk-based supplier assessments and audits. Our supplier due diligence focuses on worker rights, hours, pay, recruitment practices and living conditions where applicable. We prioritise suppliers with clear modern slavery policies and the ability to demonstrate compliance through documentation and site-level verification.
Supplier Audits and Risk Management
Supplier audits form a central pillar of our approach to managing modern slavery risk. We perform regular reviews, combining desktop checks with on-site inspections where feasible. Audit criteria include compliance with employment law, evidence of legally authorised work, and adherence to health and safety standards. Where issues are identified we require corrective action plans and will escalate non-compliance.
Our procurement team maintains a risk register for commercial waste in Woolwich, recording supplier ratings, audit outcomes and remediation progress. We use this register to inform contract renewals and decisions to onboard new contractors. High-risk suppliers are subject to enhanced monitoring and shorter contract review cycles.
We support our risk management with clear operational measures, including mandatory clauses in supplier contracts that prohibit modern slavery and provide for audit rights, and a formal escalation process. Key elements include:
- Regular supplier audits and spot checks
- Contract clauses requiring compliance with anti-slavery legislation
- Training and awareness for procurement and operational teams
- Whistleblowing and reporting channels for workers and third parties
Reporting Channels, Training and Continuous Improvement
We provide multiple secure reporting channels for anyone to raise concerns about potential modern slavery in our operations or supply chain. These reporting channels are maintained to protect confidentiality and can be used without fear of retaliation. Reports are investigated promptly and escalated through our governance structure to ensure appropriate remedial action.
Commercial Waste Woolwich invests in regular training for staff, procurement teams and on-site supervisors so they can identify indicators of exploitation and respond effectively. Training covers how to use the reporting channels, how to conduct basic worker interviews during audits, and the legal obligations associated with modern slavery prevention.
We will review this Modern Slavery Statement annually to measure the effectiveness of our measures, update policies, and publish outcomes. The annual review includes analysis of supplier audit results, incident reports and remediation actions. Through continuous improvement, stakeholder engagement and rigorous supplier oversight, we aim to strengthen protections across the Woolwich commercial waste sector and beyond.
Conclusion: Our approach to modern slavery is robust, action-focused and adaptable. By combining a strict zero-tolerance policy, systematic supplier audits, secure reporting channels and an annual review cycle, Commercial Waste Woolwich reaffirms its commitment to preventing exploitation and promoting safe, fair working conditions across our services.
