Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps Crystal Palace Carpet Cleaning has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking from occurring 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 individuals from exploitation.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Crystal Palace Carpet Cleaning provides professional carpet and upholstery cleaning services to residential and commercial customers. Our supply chains primarily consist of cleaning product manufacturers, equipment suppliers, vehicle and fuel providers, and external service providers such as facilities and maintenance contractors. We recognise that risks related to modern slavery can exist at multiple tiers of these supply chains, particularly in the sourcing of raw materials, manufacturing, and logistics.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, and all forms of exploitation. This policy applies to all individuals working for or on behalf of Crystal Palace Carpet Cleaning, including employees, agency staff, contractors, and suppliers.

We are committed to ensuring that people are always treated with dignity and respect, work is carried out voluntarily, and working conditions meet or exceed legal and industry standards. Any breach or suspected breach of this policy will be taken extremely seriously and may result in the termination of contracts or working relationships.

Risk Assessment and Due Diligence

We regularly assess the risk of modern slavery within our operations and supply chains, considering factors such as the nature of goods and services sourced, geographic location, and industry-specific vulnerabilities. Where higher risks are identified, we apply enhanced scrutiny and due diligence.

Our due diligence processes include obtaining assurances regarding labour practices from key suppliers, reviewing policies and contracts for explicit commitments against modern slavery, and monitoring for any warning signs such as unusually low pricing, inconsistent documentation, or reluctance to engage on ethical issues.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers and business partners to uphold standards that are consistent with our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery. As part of our supplier management process, we communicate our expectations clearly and require suppliers to confirm compliance with applicable labour and human rights laws.

Where appropriate, we conduct supplier audits or request evidence to verify compliance. These audits may include reviews of employment records, working conditions, and health and safety practices. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to provide sufficient assurance, or if concerns are substantiated, we will take steps that may include corrective action plans, closer monitoring, suspension of orders, or termination of the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage a culture of openness and transparency, and we support anyone who raises genuine concerns in good faith. Employees, contractors, and suppliers are urged to report any suspicion of modern slavery or unethical labour practices within our business or supply chains.

Reports can be made confidentially to line managers, senior management, or other designated points of contact within the business. Concerns will be handled sensitively, investigated promptly, and, where appropriate, escalated to relevant authorities. No individual will suffer any detrimental treatment for raising a concern about modern slavery, even if it is not ultimately substantiated, provided it was raised honestly.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery risks among our team. Relevant staff receive guidance on recognising indicators of exploitation, understanding our policies, and knowing how to report concerns. We also aim to integrate modern slavery considerations into relevant procedures such as supplier selection, onboarding, and performance reviews.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

We understand that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We are committed to continuous improvement in identifying and addressing modern slavery risks within our operations and supply chains.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the management team of Crystal Palace Carpet Cleaning. The review considers changes in our business activities, feedback from stakeholders, evolving legal requirements, and emerging best practice. Where necessary, we strengthen our policies, procedures, and control measures to improve effectiveness and transparency.

This statement has been approved by the management of Crystal Palace Carpet Cleaning and represents our current position and commitments in relation to the prevention of modern slavery and human trafficking.