Modern Slavery Statement
Kingston Carpet Cleaners Modern Slavery Statement
Kingston Carpet Cleaners is firmly committed to conducting business in a responsible, ethical, and transparent manner. This Modern Slavery Statement outlines the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all staff, contractors, and suppliers who provide goods or services to Kingston Carpet Cleaners.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Kingston Carpet Cleaners provides professional carpet, upholstery, and related cleaning services to residential and commercial customers. Our supply chains include providers of cleaning products, equipment, personal protective equipment, maintenance services, transportation, and certain outsourced services. We recognise that risks of modern slavery can exist at multiple tiers of the supply chain and we are committed to identifying and reducing those risks wherever they arise.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
We have a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, servitude, and human trafficking. We do not tolerate abusive or exploitative working conditions, illegal recruitment fees, retention of personal documents, or restrictions on freedom of movement. This stance is reflected in our internal policies and in the expectations we set for our suppliers and business partners.
All employees, managers, and contractors are expected to support and uphold this zero-tolerance policy. Any breach of this policy may result in disciplinary action, termination of employment, or termination of supplier contracts, as appropriate.
Due Diligence and Supplier Audits
We are committed to undertaking proportionate due diligence to identify, assess, and mitigate modern slavery risks in our business and supply chains. When onboarding new suppliers, we assess their ethical standards, labour practices, and compliance with relevant legislation. We prioritise working with reputable suppliers who can demonstrate their own commitment to preventing modern slavery.
Where we identify higher-risk categories or jurisdictions, we may conduct targeted supplier audits. These audits can include review of employment records, verification of age and right-to-work documentation, inspection of working conditions, and discussions with workers where appropriate. If concerns are identified, we expect suppliers to implement corrective action plans within a reasonable timeframe. Failure to address serious or repeated issues may lead to suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities
Managers and key staff involved in procurement and supplier management receive guidance on identifying signs of modern slavery and on our internal reporting expectations. We aim to build awareness among all staff so that they understand what modern slavery is, how it can manifest in our sector, and what to do if they suspect wrongdoing.
Responsibility for overseeing this Statement and our related procedures rests with senior management. However, everyone at Kingston Carpet Cleaners is responsible for acting ethically, raising concerns, and supporting efforts to prevent exploitation.
Reporting Channels and Protection
We encourage employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business or supply chains. Concerns can be raised through normal line management channels or directly to senior management. Reports will be treated seriously and sensitively, and we will investigate them promptly and, where appropriate, take corrective action.
We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who, in good faith, raises a concern or participates in an investigation. Individuals who report concerns are encouraged to provide as much information as possible so that we can properly assess the situation and respond effectively.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process. Kingston Carpet Cleaners is committed to continually improving our practices and strengthening our controls. We will review this Modern Slavery Statement and our related procedures at least once a year, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, our operations, or identified risks.
As part of this annual review, we will assess the effectiveness of our due diligence processes, consider feedback from staff and stakeholders, and identify opportunities for further training, enhanced supplier engagement, or additional auditing. Where necessary, we will update our policies and contracts to reflect evolving best practice.
This Statement has been approved by the management of Kingston Carpet Cleaners and reflects our ongoing commitment to operating with integrity and respecting the rights and dignity of all workers within our business and supply chains.
