Waste Disposal Merton Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Waste Disposal Merton in accordance with our commitment to uphold human rights and ethical business practices throughout our operations and supply chains. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation in connection with our services and relationships.

Waste Disposal Merton recognises that modern slavery is a serious global issue that can occur in any sector, including waste management and environmental services. We are committed to continually improving our practices to identify, prevent, and address any risks within our own business and among those who work with us.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

We operate a clear and robust zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This policy applies to all employees, agency staff, contractors, and suppliers associated with Waste Disposal Merton. No form of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour is acceptable in any part of our operations or supply chain.

Every individual who works for or with Waste Disposal Merton is expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity and respect for human rights. Any breach of our zero-tolerance policy is treated as a serious disciplinary and contractual matter, which can lead to termination of employment or business relationships, and referral to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our suppliers are essential partners in delivering responsible waste disposal services. We expect them to share our commitment to combatting modern slavery and to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights legislation within their jurisdictions.

Prior to entering new supplier relationships, we assess the ethical risk profile of potential partners, including country of operation, sector, and the nature of services or goods provided. Our supplier standards require clear evidence of fair working conditions, lawful employment practices, and appropriate controls to prevent exploitation.

Waste Disposal Merton conducts periodic supplier audits and checks, focusing on higher-risk areas of our supply chain. These audits may include reviewing employment records, health and safety practices, recruitment processes, and worker accommodation where relevant. If we identify non-compliance or indicators of modern slavery, we work with the supplier to implement corrective actions within defined timeframes. Where issues are serious or persistent, we will suspend or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage all employees, contractors, and third parties to speak up if they have concerns about potential modern slavery or unethical practices linked to Waste Disposal Merton. We provide clear internal reporting channels so that issues can be raised confidentially and without fear of retaliation.

Concerns can be reported to line managers, senior management, or through our designated whistleblowing channels. All reports are taken seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively. Where allegations are substantiated, we take appropriate remedial action, which may include engaging with affected individuals, addressing failures in processes, and reporting matters to competent authorities.

We also encourage our suppliers to maintain their own whistleblowing mechanisms so that workers in their organisations can raise concerns safely. We expect suppliers to investigate concerns thoroughly and to inform us of any substantiated cases that may impact our supply chain.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

Waste Disposal Merton is committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among employees whose roles involve procurement, contract management, and supplier engagement. Training is provided to help these teams identify risk indicators, understand our policy expectations, and respond appropriately to concerns.

We regularly review our procedures to ensure that modern slavery considerations are embedded in key business processes, including supplier onboarding, contract reviews, and performance monitoring. Feedback from audits, investigations, and staff input is used to strengthen our controls and improve our overall approach.

Annual Review and Statement Approval

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with best practice and emerging risks. The review considers changes in our business operations, supply chains, legislation, and any incidents or concerns raised during the year.

Following each review, Waste Disposal Merton will update this statement where necessary and communicate any significant changes to employees and relevant suppliers. The updated statement is approved by the company’s senior management, who retain overall responsibility for ensuring that our approach to modern slavery remains robust and that our commitments are implemented in practice.

By publishing this statement, Waste Disposal Merton reaffirms its commitment to preventing modern slavery in all its forms and to working collaboratively with employees, suppliers, and stakeholders to promote safe, fair, and respectful working conditions for everyone connected with our business.