Merton Carpet Cleaners Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Merton Carpet Cleaners has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard against any form of modern slavery.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Merton Carpet Cleaners has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, debt bondage, child labour, and all forms of exploitation. This policy applies to every aspect of our business, including our own workforce and all third parties who supply goods and services to us.

We expect the same high standards from all our contractors, suppliers, and other business partners. Any individual or organisation that is found to be involved in modern slavery, or that fails to take appropriate steps to prevent it, will face decisive action, which may include the termination of contracts and reporting to relevant authorities.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Merton Carpet Cleaners provides professional carpet and upholstery cleaning services. Our supply chain includes, but is not limited to, providers of cleaning materials, equipment, vehicles, protective clothing, facilities services, and certain outsourced activities.

We recognise that some parts of the supply chain, such as the sourcing of raw materials and manufacturing of equipment and textiles, may present higher risks of labour exploitation. We therefore prioritise enhanced due diligence and ongoing monitoring in these areas.

Supplier Standards and Audits

All suppliers are required to comply with our ethical standards, including adherence to applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. As part of our onboarding and ongoing supplier management, we may require suppliers to provide information about their own policies, training, and due diligence regarding modern slavery.

Where appropriate and proportionate to the level of risk, we conduct supplier audits or request independent third-party audit reports. These audits may review working conditions, recruitment practices, wage and hour records, and the presence of effective grievance mechanisms. If non-compliance or elevated risk is identified, we will work with the supplier on corrective actions or, where necessary, reconsider the business relationship.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery and human trafficking across our workforce. Relevant team members, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management, are provided with guidance on identifying potential indicators of exploitation and on the steps to take if concerns arise.

Internal communications reinforce our zero-tolerance stance and highlight the importance of vigilance in day-to-day operations, including when working at customer premises and interacting with temporary labour providers and other third parties.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Merton Carpet Cleaners encourages anyone with concerns about modern slavery or unethical conduct to speak up without fear of victimisation or retaliation. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting lines, including management and designated senior staff, or through any existing whistleblowing channels established within the business.

All reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. Where necessary, appropriate remedial actions will be taken, which may include notifying external agencies or authorities. We are committed to protecting the confidentiality of those who report genuine concerns and to addressing issues in a fair and transparent manner.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every twelve months to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with current legal requirements and best practice. As part of this review, we assess the effectiveness of our existing controls, consider any incidents or concerns raised, and evaluate new or emerging risks within our operations and supply chains.

We are committed to continual improvement. Over time, this may include strengthening our supplier assessment processes, enhancing training content, developing additional performance indicators, and further embedding respect for human rights into our corporate culture and everyday decision-making.

This statement reflects the position of Merton Carpet Cleaners for the current financial year and has been approved by the company’s leadership, who retain overall responsibility for its implementation and ongoing effectiveness.