Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

St James's Carpet Cleaners is committed to conducting business ethically and responsibly, with respect for the rights and dignity of all individuals. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery within our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to identify, prevent, and address any form of modern slavery and to continually improve our approach.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour in any part of our business or supply chain. Modern slavery is a serious violation of fundamental human rights and is entirely incompatible with our values. We expect the same high standards from all our suppliers, contractors, and business partners and require them to uphold human rights and fair working practices.

All employees and those working on our behalf are required to act with integrity and in compliance with this policy. Any breach of this policy by employees may result in disciplinary action, which could include termination of employment. Any supplier or contractor found to be involved in modern slavery practices will face immediate review, which may lead to suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Our Business and Supply Chains

St James's Carpet Cleaners provides carpet and upholstery cleaning services to residential and commercial customers. Our supply chains include the sourcing of cleaning products, machinery, equipment, personal protective gear, and a range of support services. We understand that risks of modern slavery can exist at multiple tiers of these supply chains, particularly where labour-intensive processes or low-skilled workforces are involved.

We aim to work with suppliers who are transparent about their own operations and who share our commitment to ethical labour practices. We are progressively reviewing and mapping our supply base to better understand the potential risks and to prioritise areas requiring closer scrutiny.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers and contractors to comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws, and to operate in a manner consistent with our ethical standards. As part of our supplier due diligence process, we assess new suppliers for their approach to labour rights, working conditions, and the prevention of modern slavery.

Where appropriate, we conduct supplier audits and request supporting evidence of compliance, such as written policies, workforce records, or independent certifications. These audits may be desk-based or, where proportionate and feasible, on-site assessments. If a supplier fails to meet our standards or is unable to provide satisfactory evidence of compliance, we may require corrective actions within a defined timeframe or choose to discontinue the relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

We encourage employees, contractors, and anyone else connected to our business to raise concerns about potential or suspected instances of modern slavery, without fear of retaliation. Concerns may relate to our own operations or to those of our suppliers and partners.

Individuals can report concerns directly to management or through any established internal reporting channels. All reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and, where possible, confidentially. We will investigate allegations promptly and thoroughly, and where necessary, work with relevant authorities or external experts. We do not tolerate victimisation of anyone who raises a concern in good faith.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery issues among our staff, particularly those involved in procurement, supplier management, and site operations. Training and guidance are provided to help employees recognise the signs of modern slavery, understand our policies, and know how to report concerns.

We also communicate our expectations to suppliers and contractors so that they are aware of our zero-tolerance approach. We encourage suppliers to provide similar training within their own organisations and supply chains.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery approach rests with the senior management of St James's Carpet Cleaners. They review the effectiveness of our measures, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that appropriate resources are allocated.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed annually to reflect changes in our business operations, legal requirements, and best practice. As part of the review process, we evaluate our risk assessments, supplier audits, training initiatives, and any reported incidents. Where improvements are identified, we update our policies, procedures, and controls accordingly.

By continually assessing and enhancing our approach, St James's Carpet Cleaners aims to prevent modern slavery, support ethical supply chains, and promote fair and safe working conditions for everyone connected to our business.