Modern Slavery Statement — Commercial Waste Thamesmead

Commercial Waste Thamesmead is committed to the highest standards of ethical behaviour and expects the same from all partners. This modern slavery statement outlines our approach to preventing forced labour, human trafficking and exploitation across our services, including Thamesmead commercial waste operations, CW Thamesmead activities and related supply chains. We operate a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of modern slavery and will take decisive action if breaches are discovered.

We recognise the particular risks in waste handling and transport sectors and the need for continuous vigilance. Our Thamesmead commercial waste teams are trained to spot signs of exploitation and to escalate concerns immediately. Prevention, detection and remediation underpin our approach and are integrated into our procurement and operational systems.

Scope and Commitments

This policy applies to all employees, contractors and third-party suppliers engaged in commercial-waste Thamesmead operations. We commit to due diligence, targeted supplier audits and clear reporting channels to ensure transparency. Our standards form part of contractual obligations, procurement criteria and supplier onboarding for Thamesmead waste services.

To implement our zero-tolerance stance, we maintain a structured programme of supplier engagement. This includes regular assessments, contractual clauses prohibiting forced labour and mandatory compliance checks. Supplier audits are scheduled based on risk: higher-risk suppliers and labour providers receive more frequent and in-depth inspections.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

Audits combine documentary review, site visits and worker interviews where appropriate. Audit objectives include verifying pay practices, working hours, identity checks and recruitment fees. Findings generate corrective action plans with timelines and follow-up checks. We reserve the right to suspend or terminate contracts where serious non-compliance is found.

We also run spot checks in partnership with independent auditors for selected segments of the supply chain. Our procurement teams use risk indicators to prioritise suppliers supporting commercial waste in Thamesmead and surrounding boroughs. Training for audit teams emphasises respect, confidentiality and the safety of any workers involved.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We provide multiple secure channels for reporting concerns related to modern slavery, exploitation or unethical practices. Workers, contractors and third parties can report through anonymous internal systems, dedicated compliance lines and through authorised third-party reporting mechanisms. All reports are treated seriously, investigated promptly and handled with confidentiality.

Response, Remediation and Continuous Improvement

When a report indicates potential modern slavery, we act quickly to secure the safety of affected individuals, liaise with relevant authorities and ensure appropriate remediation. This may include medical support, reparation, safe redeployment and, where necessary, termination of supplier relationships. Our remediation policy follows internationally recognised principles to put victims first and to remedy harm.

We publish annual performance summaries and maintain internal KPIs to measure progress across the Thamesmead commercial waste portfolio. Our governance framework assigns clear responsibilities at senior management level for oversight of modern slavery risks and responses.

Learning and Collaboration: We seek to learn from peers, industry bodies and external experts to strengthen our approach. Collaboration with local stakeholders, law enforcement and non-governmental organisations improves our ability to detect and address modern slavery in CW Thamesmead activities.

Annual Review and Continuous Monitoring — This statement and the measures it describes are reviewed at least annually. The review assesses the effectiveness of actions taken, updates risk assessments, refines audit schedules and improves training materials. Any changes to policy are approved by senior leadership and incorporated into operational processes for Thamesmead waste services.

Commitment Summary: Commercial Waste Thamesmead enforces a zero-tolerance policy, conducts targeted supplier audits, provides robust reporting channels and carries out an annual review to ensure continuous improvement. We remain steadfast in our duty to prevent modern slavery across all aspects of our operations and supply chain.