Elephant and Castle Carpet Cleaners Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Elephant and Castle Carpet Cleaners in respect of our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and exploitation in all aspects of our business. This statement sets out the steps we are taking to identify, prevent and address modern slavery risks within our organisation and among the suppliers and contractors with whom we work.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Elephant and Castle Carpet Cleaners maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with or support any business or individual involved in forced labour, servitude, debt bondage, child labour or any other practice that deprives people of their freedom or fundamental rights.

All employees, managers, contractors and suppliers are expected to act with integrity and to uphold this policy at all times. Any breach of this commitment is treated as a serious matter and may result in termination of employment or commercial relationships, as well as reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Our core business is the provision of professional carpet and upholstery cleaning services to residential and commercial clients. While we operate primarily within the United Kingdom, our supply chains extend to manufacturers and distributors of cleaning equipment, detergents, protective clothing and other consumables, some of which may originate from overseas.

We acknowledge that certain sectors and regions present higher risks of labour exploitation. We are therefore committed to understanding and monitoring these risks and to engaging only with suppliers who share our ethical standards and demonstrate robust labour practices.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers to comply with applicable labour laws, respect human rights and provide safe and fair working conditions. As part of our ongoing due diligence, we are working to embed modern slavery considerations into our supplier approval and review processes.

Where appropriate, we conduct supplier audits or request evidence of compliance, which may include written policies, staff training records and independent certifications. Suppliers identified as presenting a higher risk of modern slavery are subject to enhanced scrutiny. Where non-compliance or concerns are identified, we may require corrective action plans within reasonable timeframes. Failure to implement adequate corrective actions may lead to suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

We encourage all employees, contractors, suppliers and other stakeholders to report any suspicion or concern relating to modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business or supply chains. Concerns may include signs of coercion, restriction of movement, retention of identity documents, unreasonable wage deductions, or unsafe and degrading working conditions.

Reports can be made to line managers or senior management within the company. Individuals raising concerns will be treated with respect and their reports handled sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. We will not tolerate any form of retaliation or detrimental treatment against anyone who, in good faith, reports a concern or assists in an investigation.

Training, Awareness and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff and key suppliers. Relevant personnel are provided with information and guidance on recognising indicators of exploitation and on the correct procedures for escalating concerns.

We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing process. We will continue to review our policies, contracts and working practices to strengthen protections, including assessing new suppliers, refining due diligence criteria and improving the accessibility of our reporting channels.

Annual Review and Approval

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. The review will consider new risks, feedback from stakeholders, the effectiveness of supplier audits and any incidents or concerns raised during the year.

Following each annual review, the statement may be updated to reflect changes in our structure, operations, supply chains or risk management processes. The updated statement will be approved by the leadership of Elephant and Castle Carpet Cleaners and will serve as a reaffirmation of our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals connected to our business.