Modern Slavery Statement for Cleaners Merton
Cleaners Merton is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and with full respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour within our operations and across our supply chains. We recognise that vulnerability can exist in any sector, and we therefore maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of exploitation.
As a trusted cleaning provider in Merton, we understand that our responsibilities extend beyond service delivery. Our approach covers recruitment, employment practices, subcontractor oversight, and procurement decisions. We aim to ensure that all workers are treated fairly, paid appropriately, and able to work freely without coercion, intimidation, or debt bondage. This statement reflects our ongoing commitment to safeguarding people and strengthening ethical standards throughout the business.
We also expect the same standards from everyone we work with. Whether engaging suppliers, temporary labour providers, or specialist contractors, Cleaners Merton requires partners to share our commitment to lawful and fair employment. Any concerns about exploitative practices are taken seriously and investigated promptly. Where risk is identified, we will act decisively, including suspending or ending relationships where necessary.
Our zero-tolerance policy is embedded in day-to-day management. We prohibit any practice that could contribute to slavery or human trafficking, including withholding identity documents, restricting movement, unsafe recruitment fees, or deceptive job offers. Managers are expected to remain alert to warning signs such as unusual dependence on a supervisor, signs of fear, or inconsistent employment records. This policy applies to all staff, agency workers, and business partners associated with Cleaners Merton services.
To reduce risk across our supply chain, we carry out supplier audits and reviews proportionate to the level of risk. These audits may include checks on labour practices, right-to-work verification, wage compliance, subcontracting arrangements, and recordkeeping. We prioritise suppliers operating in higher-risk sectors or regions and may request evidence of policies, worker protections, and grievance processes. Where shortcomings are found, we require corrective action plans and follow-up checks to confirm improvement.
We also build awareness through internal training and management oversight. Staff involved in recruitment, purchasing, and contract management receive guidance on how to identify potential indicators of exploitation and how to respond appropriately. In addition, our onboarding process encourages ethical decision-making and reinforces the expectation that every person working with or for Cleaners Merton must be treated with dignity and respect.
Reporting channels are available to help workers and stakeholders raise concerns safely and in confidence. Any suspected issue can be reported through internal management routes, and concerns may be escalated to senior leadership where needed. We encourage early reporting, as this allows us to protect individuals quickly and investigate without delay. Reports are handled sensitively, and retaliation against anyone who speaks up is strictly prohibited. Our aim is to create a culture where concerns about modern slavery are taken seriously and addressed without fear.
Where an allegation or risk is identified, we assess the situation promptly and determine the appropriate response. This may include safeguarding support, enhanced due diligence, review of contracts, or immediate termination of a business relationship. We recognise that ethical responsibility requires action, not only statements. For this reason, our approach to Modern Slavery Statement compliance is practical, evidence-based, and focused on continuous improvement.
The leadership team reviews the effectiveness of our controls at least once a year. This annual review considers supplier audit outcomes, reported concerns, training completion, policy updates, and any changes in legal or sector risks. The review helps us refine our controls and strengthen accountability across the organisation. If gaps are identified, we revise procedures, update due diligence measures, and enhance staff awareness. This process ensures that Cleaners Merton remains vigilant and responsive.
As part of our continued commitment, we will maintain this statement as a living document and improve it as our operations evolve. We believe that protecting human rights is central to delivering dependable cleaning services and building trustworthy business relationships. Through our zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, reporting channels, and annual review, Cleaners Merton aims to support fair work, prevent exploitation, and uphold the highest ethical standards in every part of our business.