Lambeth Carpet Cleaners Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Lambeth Carpet Cleaners to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to respect human rights and to identify, prevent, and address any risks of modern slavery associated with our business activities.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Lambeth Carpet Cleaners provides professional carpet and upholstery cleaning services to residential and commercial customers. Our supply chain primarily consists of providers of cleaning products and equipment, maintenance services, uniforms, and related operational support. Although our business is not in a traditionally high-risk sector, we acknowledge that modern slavery can occur in any industry or country, and we are committed to vigilance and continuous improvement.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. This policy applies to all people working for or on behalf of Lambeth Carpet Cleaners, including employees, agency staff, contractors, and suppliers. We expect everyone connected to our business to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and to comply with all applicable labour and human rights laws.
Our zero-tolerance stance means that any suspected instance of modern slavery will be treated as a serious breach of our standards and may result in termination of employment or commercial relationships, as well as notification to relevant authorities where appropriate.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We are committed to working only with suppliers who share our values and adhere to lawful and ethical employment practices. As part of our supplier due diligence, we assess new and existing suppliers for their approach to labour standards, working conditions, and human rights. We seek written confirmation that suppliers comply with modern slavery legislation in their own operations and supply chains.
We conduct periodic reviews and proportionate audits of higher-risk suppliers, which may include requests for documentation relating to labour practices, working hours, pay, recruitment methods, and use of subcontractors. Where concerning issues are identified, we work with the supplier to agree corrective actions and timescales. Failure to adequately remedy serious concerns may lead to suspension or cessation of the business relationship.
Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery lies with senior management, who ensure that relevant policies and procedures are implemented and reviewed. Managers responsible for procurement and supplier relationships receive guidance on identifying modern slavery risks and on applying our due diligence requirements.
We promote awareness among our staff so they can recognise indicators of exploitation, such as signs of coercion, restriction of movement, withholding of documents or wages, or unreasonable working conditions. Employees are reminded that preventing modern slavery is a shared responsibility.
Reporting Concerns and Protection
All employees, contractors, and suppliers are encouraged to report any suspicion or knowledge of modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected with Lambeth Carpet Cleaners or our supply chain. Concerns can be raised directly with a manager or through internal reporting channels made available to staff.
We are committed to ensuring that anyone who raises a concern in good faith does so without fear of retaliation or detrimental treatment. Reports will be taken seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. Where appropriate, we will cooperate fully with law enforcement and relevant authorities.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires continual monitoring and improvement. Each year, Lambeth Carpet Cleaners will review this Modern Slavery Statement and our related policies and procedures. The review will consider the effectiveness of our actions, any incidents reported, changes in our supply chain, and evolving best practice and legal requirements.
Following each annual review, we will update our approach as necessary, including refining supplier assessments, enhancing staff awareness, and strengthening our reporting and escalation processes. This Statement has been approved by the management of Lambeth Carpet Cleaners and reflects our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and protecting the rights and dignity of all workers connected to our business.