Cleaners Highbury Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps that Cleaners Highbury has taken, and continues to take, to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not taking place within our operations or supply chains. Cleaners Highbury is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard against any form of modern slavery.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Cleaners Highbury maintains a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and all forms of exploitation. This commitment applies to our own team members, contracted workers, and all organisations that supply goods or services to us. We will not knowingly engage with any supplier or partner that fails to uphold these standards or is unwilling to work transparently with us to eliminate the risk of modern slavery.

All managers and supervisors are expected to lead by example by promoting a culture in which respect for human rights is fundamental. Any breach of this policy by employees will be treated as a serious disciplinary matter, which may result in termination of employment. Any breach by suppliers or contractors may lead to the suspension or termination of our business relationship.

Our Supply Chain and Supplier Standards

Our supply chain primarily consists of providers of cleaning products, equipment, uniforms, facility services, and subcontracted labour. We recognise that risks of modern slavery can arise in manufacturing, distribution, and low-paid service roles, particularly where recruitment or labour provision is outsourced.

To manage these risks, we expect our suppliers and subcontractors to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. Our purchasing and procurement standards require suppliers to confirm that they do not use forced, bonded, or involuntary labour and that workers are employed voluntarily, with freedom of movement and the right to leave their employment on reasonable notice.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

Cleaners Highbury carries out proportionate due diligence on suppliers based on risk, taking into account sector, geography, and the nature of the goods or services provided. Our processes may include pre-appointment questionnaires, review of supplier policies, and, where appropriate, requests for evidence of compliance with labour and human rights standards.

We reserve the right to conduct audits or request independent assessments to verify that suppliers meet our requirements. These audits may involve site visits, document reviews, and confidential worker interviews where appropriate and feasible. If concerns are identified, we will work with the supplier on corrective actions and timescales. If adequate improvement is not demonstrated, we may reconsider the relationship and, where necessary, cease working with that supplier.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Cleaners Highbury encourages all employees, contractors, and stakeholders to raise concerns about possible modern slavery, exploitation, or unethical behaviour at the earliest opportunity. Team members can report concerns to their line manager or a senior manager. Concerns may also be escalated to a designated internal contact responsible for overseeing ethics and compliance.

We are committed to ensuring that individuals who raise concerns in good faith are protected from retaliation or detrimental treatment. Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. Where issues are identified, we will take appropriate corrective and remedial action, which may include engagement with authorities where legally required or appropriate.

Training and Awareness

We recognise that raising awareness is essential to identifying and preventing modern slavery. Cleaners Highbury provides relevant training and guidance to managers and staff involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management. This training covers the definition and indicators of modern slavery, how to recognise warning signs, and how to report concerns.

We also communicate our expectations regarding modern slavery and human rights to suppliers and contractors, reinforcing our standards and the importance of compliance as a condition of doing business with us.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery sits with senior management at Cleaners Highbury. They ensure that our policies and procedures remain appropriate, effective, and aligned with relevant legislation and best practice. We monitor our risk profile and the effectiveness of our measures through supplier reviews, feedback from staff, and the outcomes of any investigations or audits.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least annually and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, operating practices, and identified risks. Any significant developments or improvements to our processes will be incorporated into the revised statement. By approving this statement, Cleaners Highbury confirms its ongoing commitment to combating modern slavery and protecting the dignity and rights of all people involved in our business and supply chains.