Waste Disposal Surrey Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Waste Disposal Surrey in respect of the financial year ending 31 December. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains, in line with our legal obligations and our ethical responsibilities.

About Waste Disposal Surrey

Waste Disposal Surrey provides waste collection, recycling, and disposal services to domestic, commercial, and public sector customers. Our work is delivered through a combination of our own workforce and a network of suppliers and subcontractors across transport, equipment maintenance, site services, and temporary labour. We recognise that elements of the waste and recycling sector, particularly where low-skilled and temporary labour is used, can be vulnerable to labour exploitation.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Waste Disposal Surrey has a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking in all forms. We do not tolerate forced labour, servitude, bonded or child labour, or any form of exploitation within our own operations or those of our suppliers. This commitment is endorsed by senior management and underpins our approach to procurement, contract management, and day-to-day operations.

Our zero-tolerance stance means that where credible concerns are identified, we act promptly to investigate, to protect affected individuals, and to take appropriate corrective and, where necessary, contractual action. We expect the same high standards from all those we work with.

Due Diligence and Supplier Audits

We recognise that the greatest risk of modern slavery in our business lies within our supply chains. To address this, we are implementing and strengthening due diligence procedures for suppliers, contractors, and business partners. These procedures are proportionate to the level of risk, with enhanced scrutiny in higher-risk areas such as agency labour, cleaning, and transport services.

Our supplier due diligence includes pre-qualification checks on ownership, recruitment practices, use of subcontractors, and compliance with relevant employment and immigration laws. Where appropriate, we require suppliers to confirm that they have their own policies and procedures in place to prevent modern slavery and that they cascade equivalent expectations to their own supply chains.

We conduct periodic supplier audits, which may be remote or on site, to verify compliance. These audits can include document reviews, worker interviews where appropriate, and inspection of facilities. Non-conformities are addressed through corrective action plans with clear timescales. Persistent non-compliance or serious concerns may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to ensuring that key staff understand the risks and indicators of modern slavery. Training is provided for managers and employees in procurement, contract management, site supervision, and human resources so that they can recognise potential warning signs, know how to respond, and understand our internal procedures.

We also communicate our expectations on modern slavery to suppliers and, where relevant, support them in improving their own practices. This includes explaining our zero-tolerance policy and what we require in terms of transparency, recruitment, and worker welfare.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Waste Disposal Surrey encourages anyone with concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices to report them at the earliest opportunity. Employees can raise concerns confidentially with their line manager, a senior manager, or through our internal whistleblowing route. Reports will be treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively to protect those raising concerns and any affected individuals.

We also expect our suppliers to maintain safe and accessible reporting channels for their workers. Where we are notified of concerns within our supply chain, we will work collaboratively with the supplier and appropriate agencies, where relevant, to investigate and address the issue.

Monitoring and Annual Review

We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing process and that continuous improvement is essential. Our senior management team is responsible for overseeing the effectiveness of our approach, including the operation of our due diligence, audits, training, and reporting mechanisms.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed at least annually. As part of this review, we assess any incidents reported, audit findings, changes in our risk profile, and developments in best practice and legislation. Where opportunities for improvement are identified, we update our policies, procedures, and training accordingly.

This statement has been approved by the management of Waste Disposal Surrey and will be made available to employees, suppliers, and customers to demonstrate our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our business.