Merton Cleaner Modern Slavery Statement

Merton Cleaner is committed to conducting all aspects of its business ethically, responsibly, and in full compliance with applicable laws. This Modern Slavery Statement outlines our approach to preventing modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers engaged by Merton Cleaner.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Merton Cleaner has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not accept any form of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, nor any exploitation of vulnerable persons, including through unfair recruitment practices or debt bondage. No commercial objective or operational pressure justifies a breach of this stance.

All employees and managers are required to act with integrity, treat individuals with dignity and respect, and immediately raise concerns where there is any suspicion that modern slavery may be occurring. Any confirmed violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or contract.

Our Operations and Supply Chain

Merton Cleaner provides professional cleaning services and relies on a network of suppliers for labour, equipment, and consumables. We recognise that the cleaning sector and related supply chains can be vulnerable to labour exploitation. We therefore take proactive steps to minimise risk and promote responsible practices among our suppliers and partners.

We expect all organisations that supply goods or services to Merton Cleaner to uphold equivalent standards on human rights, labour conditions, and ethical conduct. Our aim is to work collaboratively with suppliers to improve practices, while reserving the right to end relationships where serious or unremedied issues are identified.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

Before engaging new suppliers, Merton Cleaner undertakes due diligence to assess potential risks of modern slavery. This may include reviewing company policies, requesting information on labour practices, and assessing recruitment methods and use of labour agencies. Higher-risk categories of suppliers are subject to enhanced scrutiny and ongoing monitoring.

We conduct periodic supplier audits, which may be desk-based reviews or on-site assessments, depending on the nature of the goods or services provided and the level of risk. During these audits, we consider working conditions, payment practices, worker documentation, freedom of movement, and grievance processes. Where non-compliance or concerns are identified, we expect suppliers to implement corrective action plans within an agreed timeframe. Failure to cooperate or to remedy issues may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

Everyone connected with Merton Cleaner, including employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers, is encouraged to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery or human trafficking. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting channels, including managers and designated compliance contacts. Reports can be made in confidence and will be treated seriously, promptly, and sensitively.

Merton Cleaner does not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated. We are committed to ensuring that individuals feel safe and supported when speaking up about potential exploitation or unethical conduct.

Training and Awareness

To ensure that modern slavery risks are recognised and addressed, Merton Cleaner provides relevant training and guidance to managers, recruitment personnel, and staff who work with suppliers or have responsibility for procurement. This training covers the indicators of modern slavery, appropriate steps to take when concerns arise, and our internal reporting procedures.

We also promote ongoing awareness by incorporating modern slavery considerations into our policies, procedures, and communications. This helps ensure that our zero-tolerance approach is understood and consistently applied across the organisation.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing Merton Cleaner’s modern slavery approach sits with the senior management team, which reviews risks, incidents, and the effectiveness of our controls. We are committed to continuous improvement and to strengthening our processes where weaknesses are identified or best practices evolve.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and effective. As part of the review, we assess changes in our operations, emerging risks in our supply chains, the outcomes of supplier audits, and any reported concerns. Where necessary, we update our procedures, guidance, and training to reflect these findings and to enhance our prevention and response measures.

Merton Cleaner is committed to maintaining transparency in how we address modern slavery and to working with employees, suppliers, and stakeholders to help eradicate exploitation wherever it may occur.