Merton Carpet Cleaning Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Merton Carpet Cleaning in respect of the financial year ending 31 December. It sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Merton Carpet Cleaning is committed to conducting business ethically, with integrity, and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations relating to labour standards and human rights.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Merton Carpet Cleaning has a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not tolerate forced labour, bonded labour, child labour that is illegal or exploitative, human trafficking, or any other form of exploitation within our own operations or those of our suppliers and business partners. All employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to uphold this commitment and act to prevent any practice that might facilitate modern slavery in any form.

We are dedicated to fostering a culture where ethical behaviour is the norm and where respect for human rights is integral to our decision-making processes. Our policies and practices are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain effective in identifying and mitigating the risk of modern slavery.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Merton Carpet Cleaning provides professional carpet and upholstery cleaning services. Our operations are primarily local and rely on a network of suppliers who provide cleaning products, equipment, consumables, and support services. While our supply chain is relatively straightforward and considered to be low risk, we recognise that no supply chain is entirely free from the potential for modern slavery. We therefore take proactive steps to assess and manage these risks.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers to share our commitment to ethical labour practices. As part of our supplier onboarding and ongoing management, we communicate our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery and require suppliers to confirm that they comply with applicable labour and human rights laws in the regions where they operate.

Merton Carpet Cleaning conducts periodic supplier reviews and audits that may include requesting information about labour practices, workforce conditions, recruitment methods, and subcontracting arrangements. Where necessary, we may request supporting documentation to demonstrate compliance. If we identify concerns, we work with the supplier to address and remedy any issues. Where a supplier fails to take adequate corrective action or is found to be complicit in modern slavery, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or human trafficking within our business or supply chain. Concerns may relate to the treatment of workers, recruitment practices, working conditions, or any other matter that could indicate exploitation.

Reports can be made confidentially through our internal reporting channels, including direct escalation to management or through our established whistleblowing procedures. We are committed to ensuring that no person who raises a concern in good faith suffers any form of retaliation, discrimination, or detrimental treatment as a result of speaking up. All reports are taken seriously, reviewed promptly, and investigated where appropriate.

Training and Awareness

Merton Carpet Cleaning is committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff. Relevant team members receive guidance on recognising signs of exploitation and understanding how to respond to concerns. This includes training on our zero-tolerance policy, supplier expectations, and the use of internal reporting channels.

Monitoring, Annual Review, and Continuous Improvement

We recognise that preventing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. Merton Carpet Cleaning is committed to continually improving our policies and practices. This Statement, along with our related internal procedures, is reviewed at least annually by our management team to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with best practice.

As part of our annual review, we evaluate our risk assessment processes, supplier due diligence, audits, and any reports or incidents relating to modern slavery. We use the findings of this review to enhance our training, refine our supplier requirements, and strengthen our internal controls. Where appropriate, we also consider feedback from employees and stakeholders to drive further improvements.

This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the management of Merton Carpet Cleaning and reflects our ongoing commitment to ethical conduct and the protection of human rights in all aspects of our business.