Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Waste Disposal Barnet is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all parts of our business and supply chains. This statement sets out the steps we take to identify, mitigate, and address the risk of modern slavery associated with our operations, including waste collection, transportation, processing, recycling, and related support services.

We recognise that our sector can be vulnerable to labour exploitation, particularly within complex supply chains and subcontracted services. We therefore apply a proactive and risk-based approach, supported by clear policies, staff training, and continuous improvement.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Waste Disposal Barnet has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, servitude, and human trafficking. This policy applies to all employees, workers, contractors, and suppliers who work on our behalf.

No form of exploitation is acceptable within our business or supply chains. We expect everyone we work with to respect human rights, provide safe and fair working conditions, and comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. Where we identify non-compliance or credible concerns, we will take swift and appropriate action, which may include suspension or termination of contracts and reporting to relevant authorities.

Our Supply Chain and Supplier Standards

Our supply chain includes providers of equipment, personal protective equipment, vehicles, maintenance, cleaning, agency labour, and specialist waste services. We require suppliers to act in line with our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery and to maintain transparent records relating to recruitment, employment conditions, and subcontracting.

Supplier contracts and purchasing terms reflect our expectations around ethical conduct, fair pay, working hours, and the prohibition of any form of forced or child labour. We encourage open dialogue with suppliers to improve standards and to resolve any issues in a constructive and responsible manner.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

We conduct proportionate due diligence on existing and prospective suppliers, focusing on those operating in higher-risk sectors or geographic areas. Our approach includes pre-appointment assessments, ongoing monitoring, and, where appropriate, on-site or remote audits.

Supplier audits may review recruitment practices, worker documentation, payment records, accommodation arrangements where applicable, and grievance mechanisms. We expect full cooperation and transparency from suppliers during these audits. Where gaps are identified, we may require corrective action plans with clear timelines and evidence of completion. Persistent or serious breaches may result in the ending of commercial relationships.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Waste Disposal Barnet encourages all employees, agency workers, contractors, suppliers, and members of the public to report any concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to our operations or supply chains. Concerns can be raised through line managers, our HR team, or our confidential whistleblowing channels.

All reports are treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively. We do not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. Where necessary, we will work with law enforcement and specialist agencies to ensure appropriate follow-up and protection of affected individuals.

Training and Awareness

We provide training and guidance to relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and site supervision. This training covers the signs of modern slavery, how to respond to concerns, and our internal reporting procedures.

We also promote awareness of modern slavery risks through internal communications and induction materials for new employees. By strengthening awareness, we aim to ensure that potential issues are identified early and escalated without delay.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior management of Waste Disposal Barnet. They review key risks, incidents, supplier performance, and the effectiveness of our controls.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every year to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, and our operational circumstances. As part of the annual review, we assess the effectiveness of our zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, reporting mechanisms, and training. Where improvements are identified, we incorporate them into our policies, procedures, and contractual arrangements.

This statement has been approved by the leadership of Waste Disposal Barnet and represents our ongoing commitment to combating modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our business.