Modern Slavery Statement for Edgware Cleaners

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Edgware Cleaners has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to act ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implement effective systems and controls to safeguard against any form of modern slavery.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Edgware Cleaners adopts a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and all forms of exploitation. We are committed to ensuring that everyone who works for us, or on our behalf, is treated fairly, with dignity and respect, and that their fundamental human rights are upheld at all times.

No form of modern slavery is accepted or excused within our own operations or in the practices of any third party associated with us. Where we identify a risk or breach, we will act promptly and decisively, which may include terminating relationships with suppliers or contractors that fail to meet our standards.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Edgware Cleaners provides professional cleaning services to residential, commercial and specialist clients. Our workforce includes directly employed staff and vetted subcontractors. Our supply chains mainly involve the sourcing of cleaning materials, equipment, workwear and related services from a range of suppliers and service providers.

We recognise that certain sectors and geographies are at higher risk of modern slavery. Accordingly, we prioritise oversight of suppliers that operate in, or source from, higher risk categories or locations, and we continue to enhance our due diligence in these areas.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

Suppliers are expected to adhere to the same high standards that we set for ourselves. We require suppliers and contractors to confirm that they comply with all applicable laws relating to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced and compulsory labour, and child labour.

As part of our due diligence processes, we assess new suppliers before engagement and periodically review existing suppliers. Where appropriate, we request information on labour practices, recruitment processes, use of agencies, and policies for preventing exploitation. We do not knowingly engage any supplier or intermediary that uses forced, bonded or involuntary labour.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

Edgware Cleaners carries out proportionate audits and checks on selected suppliers, particularly where the risk of labour exploitation is assessed as higher. These audits may include document reviews, discussions with management and, where feasible, site visits or inspections conducted by us or independent auditors.

Findings from audits are used to drive improvements and corrective actions. Where non-compliance or concerns are identified, we require clear and timely remediation plans. Persistent failure to address issues may lead to suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Training and Awareness

We recognise that raising awareness is critical to identifying and preventing modern slavery. Relevant managers and staff receive training on recognising indicators of exploitation, understanding our policies, and knowing how to report concerns. We review and update our training materials to reflect evolving best practice and legal requirements.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Edgware Cleaners encourages all employees, workers, suppliers, contractors and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised confidentially through internal reporting channels to management or designated senior personnel.

We are committed to ensuring that individuals who raise genuine concerns are protected. We do not tolerate any form of victimisation, retaliation or disadvantage against anyone who reports a concern in good faith, whether it is ultimately substantiated or not.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Our approach to preventing modern slavery is not static. We regularly review our policies, risk assessments, supplier engagement processes and training programmes to strengthen our controls and respond to emerging risks.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed and approved at least once each year by senior management. The review considers the effectiveness of measures taken, audit outcomes, reported concerns and developments in legislation and guidance. Updated versions of the statement are communicated within the business and made available to stakeholders.

By maintaining clear standards, robust oversight and open reporting channels, Edgware Cleaners aims to play an active role in the broader effort to eradicate modern slavery and protect the rights and wellbeing of all workers in our operations and supply chains.