Hampstead Carpet Cleaners Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Hampstead Carpet Cleaners has taken, and is continuing to take, to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not taking place within our business or our supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard against any form of modern slavery.

Modern slavery encompasses slavery, servitude, human trafficking and forced or compulsory labour. We recognise that these abuses can occur in any sector and any country. As a provider of carpet cleaning and related services, we understand our responsibility to identify and address potential risks in our operations and in the products and services we procure.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Hampstead Carpet Cleaners maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not accept any form of exploitation, whether direct or indirect, in our business activities. This policy applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and any third parties who act on our behalf.

All staff are required to conduct themselves in a manner that upholds human dignity and respects labour rights. Any behaviour that conflicts with this commitment is considered a serious breach of our standards and may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment or contract, as well as reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chain includes suppliers of cleaning products, equipment, uniforms, and specialist services. We expect all suppliers to adhere to legal and ethical labour practices and to prohibit the use of forced, bonded or trafficked labour and child labour.

We communicate our expectations to suppliers through our purchasing terms and supplier standards. New suppliers are screened, as far as practicable, for ethical compliance, including their own policies on modern slavery and human rights. Where we identify higher risk areas, we take additional measures to verify compliance.

Hampstead Carpet Cleaners carries out proportionate supplier audits, which may include questionnaires, requests for supporting documentation, and, where feasible, on-site visits. Suppliers are expected to cooperate fully with any audit and to provide transparent information about their own supply chains. If a supplier is found to be involved in modern slavery or fails to address identified concerns within a reasonable timeframe, we reserve the right to review, suspend or terminate the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

We actively encourage employees, workers, suppliers and other stakeholders to report any concerns about modern slavery, human trafficking or other unethical practices connected to Hampstead Carpet Cleaners or our supply chains.

Concerns can be raised through internal reporting routes, including line managers or senior management, or via established whistleblowing mechanisms within the company. Reports can be made in confidence and will be treated seriously, promptly and sensitively. No individual will suffer any detrimental treatment for reporting a concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated following investigation.

All reports relating to potential modern slavery will be thoroughly investigated. Where appropriate, we will cooperate with law enforcement and other relevant agencies, and we will take remedial action to address any confirmed issues and prevent recurrence.

Training, Awareness and Responsibilities

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery sits with senior management. Managers are required to promote awareness of this Statement and ensure that the zero-tolerance policy is understood and applied within their teams.

We provide staff with information and guidance on identifying signs of exploitation, particularly for roles that involve supplier engagement or workforce management. Employees are reminded of the importance of due diligence and of using the reporting channels if they suspect any form of modern slavery.

Monitoring and Annual Review

Hampstead Carpet Cleaners is committed to continuous improvement in preventing modern slavery. We monitor the effectiveness of our policies and procedures through periodic internal reviews of our supply chain checks, audit findings and any reports or complaints received.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains current, effective and aligned with best practice and legal requirements. As part of the annual review, we consider developments in legislation, guidance, industry standards and any lessons learned from our own operations or from external cases.

Following each review, we may update our supplier requirements, audit processes, staff training and internal reporting mechanisms to strengthen our approach. By maintaining active oversight and accountability, Hampstead Carpet Cleaners aims to play a responsible role in combating modern slavery and promoting fair and ethical working conditions throughout our business and supply chains.