Modern Slavery Statement for Addiscombe Carpet Cleaners

Addiscombe Carpet Cleaners is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and with full respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that carpet cleaning services may rely on a range of suppliers, contractors, and support services, and we take our duty to protect people seriously. Our approach is based on zero tolerance for any form of modern slavery and on continuous vigilance across our business.

Our policy applies to all employees, temporary workers, contractors, agency staff, and third-party providers engaged by Addiscombe Carpet Cleaners. We expect everyone representing the business to act with integrity, to respect the dignity of workers, and to follow lawful and fair employment practices. Any breach of this commitment is treated as a serious matter. We do not knowingly work with any organisation that benefits from exploitation, and we reserve the right to end relationships where credible concerns are identified.

To reinforce this standard, we require managers and procurement staff to assess risk at each stage of supplier engagement. This includes considering labour practices, recruitment methods, and the transparency of ownership and subcontracting arrangements. By maintaining a strong anti-slavery position, Addiscombe Carpet Cleaning aims to support fair work practices and protect vulnerable individuals from abuse.

Supplier Oversight and Risk Management

Supplier due diligence is a core part of our modern slavery controls. Before entering into new arrangements, we evaluate suppliers based on the nature of the service, geographic risk, and labour-intensity of their operations. Where appropriate, we request declarations confirming compliance with applicable employment and human rights laws. We may also ask suppliers to confirm their own expectations for subcontractors and labour providers.

In higher-risk cases, we conduct supplier audits or targeted checks to verify working conditions, payroll processes, recruitment practices, and documentation. These audits may include review of worker contracts, identity verification procedures, and evidence that workers are free to leave employment without penalty. If concerns arise, we require corrective action plans and monitor progress closely. Where a supplier is unwilling or unable to meet our standards, we will consider suspension or termination of the relationship.

We also expect suppliers to report any suspected exploitative practices promptly. A responsible supply chain is essential to the integrity of Addiscombe Carpet Cleaners, and we seek to build long-term relationships only with organisations that share our values. This expectation extends to all relevant commercial partners, including those who provide equipment, cleaning products, logistics, and maintenance support.

Training, Reporting, and Accountability

Awareness among staff is vital to the prevention of modern slavery. We provide guidance to managers and relevant team members on recognising warning signs, including restricted movement, withheld documents, excessive working hours, intimidation, or unusual dependence on a third party. We encourage a culture in which concerns can be raised early and treated seriously. Our internal controls are intended to help Addiscombe Carpet Cleaners identify risks before they escalate.

We maintain clear reporting channels for anyone who suspects modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns may be raised through line management, senior leadership, or our designated safeguarding and compliance route. Reports are handled confidentially where possible, and no one will suffer retaliation for raising a genuine concern in good faith. If required, we will escalate matters to the appropriate authorities and cooperate fully with any lawful investigation.

All reports are recorded, reviewed, and followed up with appropriate action. This may include immediate suspension of a supplier relationship, further investigation, training updates, or policy improvement. Our zero-tolerance policy applies equally to internal conduct and external partnerships, and we expect prompt cooperation from all parties when concerns are raised.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

As part of our governance process, this statement and the controls behind it are reviewed annually. The review considers any incidents, changes in legislation, emerging sector risks, and the effectiveness of supplier monitoring. We use the findings to strengthen procedures and refine our approach where needed. This annual review ensures that our commitment remains active rather than symbolic, and that Addiscombe Carpet Cleaners continues to improve its protection against exploitation.

Where the review identifies opportunities for enhancement, we update training, supplier assessments, and reporting procedures accordingly. We view modern slavery prevention as an ongoing responsibility, not a one-time exercise. By combining due diligence, audits, reporting mechanisms, and annual oversight, Addiscombe Carpet Cleaners seeks to uphold ethical standards throughout its operations.

In conclusion, Addiscombe Carpet Cleaners is dedicated to promoting fair treatment, lawful employment, and transparent business conduct. We will continue to work with suppliers and colleagues who share these values, and we will act decisively where risks are identified. Our commitment is clear: modern slavery has no place in our business or in the supply chains that support it.