Waste Collection Docklands Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Waste Collection Docklands to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business operations and supply chains. We recognise that the waste management sector can be exposed to labour exploitation risks, including the use of temporary, migrant and subcontracted labour. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery does not occur.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Waste Collection Docklands operates a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and child labour. This commitment applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, consultants and suppliers. Any form of coercion, debt bondage, confiscation of personal documents, restriction of movement or threats relating to immigration status is strictly prohibited.

Our leadership team is responsible for setting the tone from the top, ensuring that respect for human rights is integrated into our policies, decision making and commercial relationships. We expect everyone working with or on behalf of Waste Collection Docklands to comply with this zero-tolerance stance and to report concerns at the earliest opportunity.

Supply Chain Standards and Due Diligence

Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles, equipment, fuel, uniforms, facilities services and labour support. We recognise the potential risks in these areas and have implemented proportionate due diligence measures. All new suppliers are required to confirm that they comply with applicable labour laws and that they do not tolerate modern slavery or human trafficking in their own operations or supply chains.

Supplier contracts incorporate clauses requiring adherence to our ethical standards and cooperation with any investigations into labour practices. We reserve the right to terminate relationships with suppliers that fail to meet our requirements or that are unwilling to remedy identified issues within an agreed timeframe.

Supplier Audits and Ongoing Monitoring

To support our zero-tolerance approach, we conduct risk-based audits of selected suppliers. These audits may include document reviews, site visits, interviews with workers where appropriate and verification of recruitment practices. Areas of focus include working hours, pay arrangements, freedom of movement, health and safety, and the absence of recruitment fees charged to workers.

Where audits identify areas for improvement, we work collaboratively with suppliers to develop corrective action plans, including time-bound commitments and follow-up reviews. Persistent non-compliance or unwillingness to improve will lead to reconsideration of the commercial relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We actively encourage employees, contractors, agency workers and suppliers to raise concerns about modern slavery risks without fear of retaliation. Concerns can be reported to line managers, senior management or the dedicated ethics contact within the business. Anonymous reports are accepted and will be taken seriously.

All reports are reviewed promptly and investigated where appropriate. We take steps to protect the confidentiality of individuals who raise concerns and prohibit victimisation in any form. If modern slavery is suspected or identified, we will act swiftly, which may include notifying relevant authorities, supporting affected individuals and working with partners to resolve the situation.

Training and Awareness

To strengthen our prevention efforts, we provide training and guidance to relevant employees, especially those involved in procurement, contract management and human resources. Training covers the definitions and indicators of modern slavery, how to recognise warning signs in the workplace and supply chain, and how to use our reporting channels.

We also communicate our expectations to suppliers so they understand our zero-tolerance policy and the standards we expect them to uphold. This includes guidance on responsible recruitment, fair treatment of workers and transparent labour practices.

Governance and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery approach rests with the senior management of Waste Collection Docklands. They ensure that appropriate resources are allocated and that progress is regularly monitored. We review this Modern Slavery Statement at least once every year to reflect changes in legislation, guidance, industry practice and our own operations.

The annual review assesses the effectiveness of our policies, supplier audits, training, reporting mechanisms and remediation measures. Where gaps or new risks are identified, we update our procedures and take further action as needed. By continuously improving our approach, we aim to reduce the risk of modern slavery within our business and contribute to broader efforts to eradicate exploitation in the waste management sector.