Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Waste Disposal Haringey in respect of the current financial year. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting our business ethically, with integrity, and in full compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Our Organisation and Supply Chains

Waste Disposal Haringey provides waste collection, recycling, and disposal services within the borough of Haringey. Our activities rely on a network of suppliers and contractors that provide labour, vehicles, equipment, protective clothing, facilities management, technology, and other support services. We recognise that some parts of the waste management and logistics sectors can be at higher risk of labour exploitation, and we are focused on identifying and addressing these risks.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, debt bondage, and child labour. This commitment applies to our own operations and to everyone who works with or for us. No commercial consideration, including cost or time pressure, will ever justify practices that are unsafe, exploitative, or unlawful. We expect all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers to support and uphold this position.

Policies and Governance

Our approach is supported by internal policies, including standards on ethical conduct, recruitment, equality, health and safety, and whistleblowing. These policies are reviewed periodically to ensure they reflect evolving best practice and legislative changes. Senior management has overall responsibility for overseeing our response to modern slavery risks, ensuring that suitable resources, training, and monitoring arrangements are in place.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We recognise that effective management of modern slavery risks requires a strong focus on our supply chains. We conduct due diligence on new and existing suppliers, proportionate to the level of risk. This may include pre-qualification questionnaires, review of labour practices, assessment of geographic and sector risk, and verification of identity and ownership. Where we identify areas of concern, we may undertake more detailed checks or on-site reviews.

We are rolling out a programme of supplier audits to assess compliance with our standards. These audits may be conducted directly by Waste Disposal Haringey or by appropriately qualified third parties. We expect suppliers to provide accurate information, cooperate fully with any audits, and implement corrective actions where required. Failure to address material issues may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Training and Awareness

We provide training and guidance to relevant staff, especially those involved in procurement, contract management, and frontline operations. Training covers the nature and indicators of modern slavery, how to raise concerns, and the responsibilities of managers and employees. We are working to strengthen awareness so that potential issues are recognised early and addressed promptly.

Reporting Channels and Protection

We encourage all employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers to speak up if they have concerns about possible modern slavery or unethical labour practices in our operations or supply chains. Concerns can be raised with line managers, human resources, or through our confidential whistleblowing channels. Reports may be made anonymously where permitted by local law.

We will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. All reports will be taken seriously, treated sensitively, and investigated appropriately. Where credible concerns are identified, we will act swiftly, which may include working with law enforcement or specialist organisations.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Waste Disposal Haringey is committed to continuous improvement in the way we identify, prevent, and address modern slavery risks. We will review this Statement and our related procedures at least annually, or more frequently if there are significant changes in our operations, risk profile, or legal obligations. As part of the annual review, we will consider feedback from stakeholders, audit findings, and any reported incidents, and we will update our actions and priorities accordingly.

This Statement has been approved by the senior leadership of Waste Disposal Haringey and will be reviewed and reissued each year to reflect our ongoing commitment to eliminating modern slavery and human trafficking from our business and supply chains.