Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Earls Court Carpet Cleaning in relation to our activities and supply chains. It outlines the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation in any part of our operations. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery does not occur.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Earls Court Carpet Cleaning provides professional carpet and upholstery cleaning services to residential and commercial customers. Our operations are primarily based in the local area, and our supply chains include cleaning product manufacturers, equipment providers, uniform suppliers, and various facilities and maintenance services. While our business is relatively small and operates mainly within the United Kingdom, we recognise that modern slavery can occur in any country and at any level of the supply chain. We are therefore committed to continuous improvement in our approach to identifying and managing these risks.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We maintain a strict zero-tolerance policy to modern slavery and human trafficking. This means we do not knowingly work with any individual, organisation, or supplier that engages in, or is complicit in, any form of forced labour, exploitation, child labour, servitude, or trafficking. All employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to conduct business in a manner that upholds human rights, respects the dignity of all individuals, and complies with applicable labour laws and standards. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in the termination of contracts or other appropriate actions.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We recognise that the greatest risk of modern slavery in relation to our business lies within our supply chains. To address this, we apply a risk-based approach to supplier due diligence. When selecting and reviewing suppliers, we consider factors such as geographic location, the nature of goods or services provided, and known sector risks.

Our due diligence measures include assessing supplier commitments to ethical labour practices and, where appropriate, requesting supporting information about their policies and procedures. We reserve the right to carry out audits or request independent audits of suppliers where we identify heightened risk or where we have concerns. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to demonstrate adequate steps to prevent modern slavery, we will review the commercial relationship and may seek alternative suppliers.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

We encourage all employees, contractors, and business partners to report any concerns related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Individuals are urged to raise issues with their line manager or a senior member of the management team. Reports may include concerns about working conditions, recruitment practices, wages, freedom of movement, or any behaviour that may indicate exploitation or coercion.

We will take all reports seriously and treat them with appropriate confidentiality, to the extent possible. No person raising a genuine concern in good faith will suffer any detrimental treatment, including dismissal, disciplinary action, or other retaliation. Where appropriate, we will investigate reported concerns and take steps to address any issues identified, including notifying relevant authorities if needed.

Training and Awareness

We aim to ensure that key members of our team understand the risks of modern slavery and how to identify potential indicators. Staff involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management receive guidance on our zero-tolerance policy, our expectations of suppliers, and the appropriate channels for raising concerns. We will continue to build awareness within our workforce to support a culture where human rights are respected and upheld.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the management of Earls Court Carpet Cleaning to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with relevant legislation and best practice. As part of the annual review, we consider any changes in our business operations, supply chains, and risk profile. We also assess the effectiveness of our due diligence processes, audits, and training and make improvements where necessary.

We are committed to ongoing improvement in our approach to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking. By strengthening our policies, engaging with suppliers, and promoting awareness among our staff, we aim to reduce the risk of exploitation in our operations and supply chains and to support the broader effort to eradicate modern slavery in all its forms.