Modern Slavery Statement — Commercial Waste Merton
Commercial Waste Merton (also referenced as commercial-waste-merton and Merton commercial waste) is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all parts of our operations and supply chains. This Modern Slavery Statement explains our approach, responsibilities and actions to identify, mitigate and remediate risks associated with forced labour and exploitation across the collection, processing and disposal of commercial waste in Merton.
We operate a zero-tolerance policy toward modern slavery and human trafficking. Our senior leadership endorses a clear stance: any form of exploitation is unacceptable. Zero-tolerance policy measures are embedded in our procurement, contract management and HR practices to ensure workers' rights and safe working conditions are protected at every stage.
To enforce our commitments, we conduct rigorous supplier audits and assessments. Our supplier due diligence includes pre-contract screening, risk-based audits and ongoing performance checks. We require suppliers and contractors to comply with our standards and provide transparent evidence of working conditions, pay practices and legal compliance to reduce risks across the Merton commercial waste supply chain.
Supply Chain Oversight and Risk Management
We recognise that the commercial waste in Merton ecosystem involves complex subcontracting and seasonal labour. To manage these risks we deploy targeted mapping and monitoring of high-risk suppliers, third-party logistics providers and materials processing partners. Our actions are designed to detect suspicious labour practices early and to ensure swift corrective steps.
Our process includes formalised supplier audits and contractual obligations. Audits cover documentation checks, on-site inspections where necessary and worker interviews. Key elements of our audit programme include:
- Verification of right to work and absence of exploitative recruitment fees
- Checks on wages, hours and health & safety standards
- Review of subcontracting arrangements to ensure transparency
- Remediation plans where non-compliance is identified
These measures ensure that commercial waste Merton partners meet our expectations and that remedial action is taken without delay if issues are discovered.
Reporting, Training and Continuous Improvement
We maintain multiple reporting channels for concerns about modern slavery, designed to be accessible and confidential. Employees, contractors and third parties can raise issues through internal reporting lines, designated compliance officers and anonymous whistleblowing mechanisms. Our reporting channels are monitored and acted upon promptly, with protections in place for those who speak up.
Training and awareness are central to our strategy. Staff involved in procurement, operations and contract management receive regular training on recognising signs of exploitation and on how to use reporting channels. We encourage an organisational culture where vigilance and ethical conduct are expected and supported.
Implementation is accompanied by clear remediation protocols. When concerns are validated, we require suppliers to implement corrective action plans, offer support to affected workers and, where necessary, terminate relationships with persistent offenders. We also collaborate with local authorities and industry partners to strengthen protections across the region.
Annual review is a cornerstone of our commitment. We perform an annual review of our policies, supplier audits, reporting outcomes and training effectiveness to ensure continuous improvement and alignment with evolving legal requirements and best practice. This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every year and updated to reflect new insights and actions.
Commercial Waste Merton pledges to uphold human rights across its operations and supply chain. Our combined approach — clear zero-tolerance policy, robust supplier audits, secure reporting channels and a formal annual review — reinforces our determination to eradicate modern slavery from the commercial waste sector in Merton and beyond.
