Modern Slavery Statement for Thornton Heath Carpet Cleaners

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Thornton Heath Carpet Cleaners to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting our activities ethically, transparently, and in full respect of human rights. This statement covers our financial year and will be reviewed and updated on an annual basis.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Thornton Heath Carpet Cleaners provides professional carpet and upholstery cleaning services to residential and commercial customers. Our business activities rely on a combination of directly employed staff, contracted personnel, and suppliers who provide cleaning products, equipment, vehicles, and ancillary services such as maintenance and uniforms. We recognise that risks of modern slavery can occur at various points within these supply chains, particularly where goods or services are sourced from higher risk sectors or regions.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

We operate a clear zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to all forms of forced labour, servitude, debt bondage, child labour, and exploitation. We expect the same high standards from all those we work with, including employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers. Any indication of involvement in modern slavery is treated as a serious breach of our standards and may result in termination of contracts or working relationships, as well as reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Governance and Responsibilities

The management team at Thornton Heath Carpet Cleaners is responsible for implementing and overseeing our modern slavery prevention measures. Managers are required to ensure that recruitment, procurement, and operational practices align with this statement. All employees are expected to act in accordance with our policies, to report concerns promptly, and to cooperate with any investigations or audits relating to modern slavery risks.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We are committed to working only with suppliers who share our ethical standards. As part of our supplier due diligence, we assess the nature of goods and services provided, the geographic source of those goods or services, and the supplier’s own policies and track record on labour practices. New suppliers may be asked to confirm their compliance with modern slavery legislation and to provide information about their workforce and sourcing arrangements.

We reserve the right to conduct audits or request audits of key suppliers, particularly where products or services originate from sectors or countries with elevated modern slavery risks. These audits may include site visits, review of employment records, and discussions with workers where feasible. Where non-compliance is identified, we will work with suppliers to develop corrective action plans, set clear timeframes for improvement, or, if necessary, cease trading with them.

Training and Awareness

We are developing ongoing training for relevant staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supervision of workers. Training covers the recognition of potential indicators of modern slavery, the importance of responsible sourcing, and the correct use of reporting channels. We also promote general awareness across our workforce so that all individuals understand our zero-tolerance stance and know how to raise concerns safely.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Thornton Heath Carpet Cleaners encourages all employees, contractors, and suppliers to report any concerns related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised directly with line managers, senior management, or through internal reporting procedures made available to staff. Reports may be made confidentially, and we will take all reasonable steps to protect those who raise concerns in good faith from victimisation or retaliation.

All reports are taken seriously and will be investigated promptly and impartially. Where necessary, we will consult with external experts or authorities. If modern slavery is identified or strongly suspected, we will act without delay to safeguard affected individuals and to prevent any further abuses.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that addressing modern slavery risks is an ongoing process. Thornton Heath Carpet Cleaners is committed to continuous improvement in our practices, including refining our risk assessments, strengthening supplier engagement, and enhancing staff training. We will review this Modern Slavery Statement at least once each year to reflect changes in our business structure, supply chains, risk profile, and legal or regulatory requirements.

This statement has been approved by the management of Thornton Heath Carpet Cleaners, who are responsible for ensuring that it is communicated, understood, and implemented across the organisation and our supply network.