Earls Court Carpet Cleaners Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Earls Court Carpet Cleaners has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking from occurring within our business operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting our business ethically and with integrity, and to ensuring that those with whom we work share these principles.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Earls Court Carpet Cleaners provides professional carpet and upholstery cleaning services to residential and commercial customers. Our operations rely on trained staff, cleaning equipment, and cleaning products supplied by a range of external suppliers and service providers. We recognise that modern slavery risks can arise at various levels of the supply chain, particularly in the sourcing of raw materials, manufacturing of cleaning products, and the provision of subcontracted labour and ancillary services.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
We maintain a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking in all their forms, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, servitude, and any form of exploitation. This approach applies to every aspect of our business, from how we recruit and manage our people to how we select and work with our suppliers. We expect the same high standards from all contractors, suppliers, and business partners, and we are prepared to discontinue relationships with those who do not uphold these standards.
Employment Practices and Worker Protection
All individuals working directly for Earls Court Carpet Cleaners are employed in accordance with applicable labour laws and regulations. Workers are free to leave their employment with appropriate notice, are paid at or above the applicable minimum wage, and receive clear information about their employment terms. We do not tolerate any form of intimidation, threats, or abuse in the workplace. Identification documents are not retained by the company, and any recruitment fees are not charged to workers.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We require our key suppliers and service providers to operate in a way that is consistent with our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery. As part of our supplier onboarding and ongoing review process, we assess the risk of modern slavery by considering sector, geography, and the nature of goods or services supplied. Where there is a higher inherent risk, we conduct more detailed due diligence.
We carry out periodic supplier audits, which may include requests for supporting documentation about labour practices, working conditions, and sourcing of materials. Where appropriate, we may also conduct site visits. If we identify potential issues, we expect suppliers to remedy them promptly and transparently. Continued non-compliance or a refusal to address concerns will lead to a review of the relationship and may result in termination.
Training and Awareness
We aim to build awareness of modern slavery risks among our management and relevant staff. Training focuses on recognising warning signs of exploitation, understanding our policies, and knowing how to respond to concerns. Team members who manage procurement or have direct responsibility for supplier relationships receive additional guidance on incorporating anti-slavery checks into their day-to-day activities.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We encourage all employees, contractors, and other stakeholders to report any concerns they may have about modern slavery or unethical behaviour connected to our business or supply chain. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting channels, including line managers or designated senior staff members, without fear of retaliation. We take all reports seriously, investigate them appropriately, and take action where necessary to address any confirmed issues.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Our approach to preventing modern slavery is subject to ongoing review and improvement. We recognise that risks evolve over time and that our methods for addressing them must continually develop. Each year, senior management reviews this Modern Slavery Statement and our supporting processes to evaluate their effectiveness, to reflect any changes in our operations or supply chain, and to incorporate lessons learned from audits, reports, and industry developments.
This statement has been approved by the management of Earls Court Carpet Cleaners and will be updated and republished on an annual basis to reflect our continued commitment to combating modern slavery and human trafficking in all areas of our business.
