Modern Slavery Statement for Selsdon Carpet Cleaners

Selsdon Carpet Cleaners is committed to conducting business with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. As a responsible carpet cleaning business, we recognise that modern slavery can take many forms, including forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, and exploitation. This statement sets out the steps we take to reduce the risk of slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains.

We maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward modern slavery in every part of our business. This applies to our employees, contractors, suppliers, and any third parties acting on our behalf. We expect all individuals and organisations connected to Selsdon Carpet Cleaners to act ethically, comply with applicable laws, and uphold fundamental labour rights. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in immediate corrective action or termination of the business relationship.

Our internal controls support this commitment by requiring fair recruitment practices, lawful working conditions, and clear employment terms. We do not permit the use of child labour, withheld wages, document retention as a condition of work, or any practice that limits a person’s freedom of movement. We also provide guidance to managers so they can identify warning signs of exploitation and respond appropriately if concerns arise.

Supplier management is a key part of our approach. We conduct supplier audits and proportionate due diligence on the businesses we work with, especially where there may be a higher risk of labour exploitation. These checks consider ownership, employment practices, subcontracting arrangements, and compliance with relevant regulations. Where appropriate, we request evidence of policies, worker welfare procedures, and records demonstrating lawful employment.

When we identify a risk, we work with the supplier to understand the issue and agree on remedial actions. If a supplier cannot meet our standards, we will reconsider the relationship. This process helps ensure that Selsdon Carpet Cleaners does not knowingly support any practice that could contribute to modern slavery. Our audits are designed not only to detect problems but also to encourage long-term ethical improvement across the supply chain.

Training and awareness are also important. We brief relevant staff on how to recognise signs of exploitation, such as unusual payment arrangements, excessive control over workers, or reluctance by suppliers to share labour-related information. By building awareness across the business, we strengthen our ability to prevent abuse and make informed decisions. We also encourage a culture in which concerns can be raised early and handled responsibly.

Reporting Channels and Safeguarding Concerns

Anyone working with or for Selsdon Carpet Cleaners may report concerns about modern slavery through our internal reporting channels. Reports can be made to a manager, a senior leader, or a designated safeguarding contact through the company’s internal procedures. We aim to ensure that concerns are treated seriously, recorded appropriately, and investigated promptly.

We recognise the importance of protection for those who speak up. Retaliation, intimidation, or victimisation against anyone raising a genuine concern is not acceptable. Where necessary, we will take steps to protect confidentiality and support individuals who may be vulnerable. Our reporting process is intended to help us identify risks early and take action before harm escalates.

In addition to internal escalation, we expect managers and procurement decisions to reflect this policy at every stage of supplier selection and engagement. Modern slavery prevention is not a one-time exercise; it is an ongoing responsibility shared throughout the business. The company will continue to monitor its practices and strengthen controls where needed.

Review, Monitoring, and Continuous Improvement

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with current legislation and business operations. The review considers any incidents, audit findings, supplier changes, training needs, and updates to risk assessments. Where improvements are identified, we update our procedures and reinforce expectations across the organisation.

Our commitment is guided by the belief that ethical business practice is essential to long-term trust. Modern slavery prevention is part of our broader responsibility to protect dignity, promote fair treatment, and maintain integrity in all that we do. We will continue to refine our controls, strengthen supplier oversight, and support a workplace culture that does not tolerate exploitation.

Selsdon Carpet Cleaners will continue to uphold this statement through consistent action, accountability, and vigilance. By applying our zero-tolerance policy, carrying out supplier audits, maintaining clear reporting channels, and completing an annual review, we aim to reduce the risk of modern slavery and contribute to a safer, fairer supply chain.