Waste Disposal Hackney Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions taken by Waste Disposal Hackney to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that the waste management and environmental services sector can be exposed to risks of labour exploitation, and we are committed to identifying, preventing and addressing these risks in a proactive and transparent manner.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Waste Disposal Hackney has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking in all their forms. This applies to our own activities, our employees, agency staff, contractors, and every tier of our supply chain. We will not knowingly work with any organisation that fails to uphold basic human rights, fair working conditions, and lawful employment practices.

We are committed to ensuring that all work is performed voluntarily, that workers are free to leave their employment in accordance with established laws and contracts, and that no one is subjected to forced labour, debt bondage, servitude, or any form of exploitation. Any breach of these principles is treated as a serious violation of our corporate standards and business ethics.

Governance, Policies and Responsibilities

Overall responsibility for our modern slavery strategy rests with the senior management team of Waste Disposal Hackney. They are responsible for ensuring that appropriate systems, controls, and resources are in place to identify and mitigate modern slavery risks. Line managers are tasked with implementing these measures in day-to-day operations and escalating any concerns.

Our employee code of conduct, recruitment procedures, and supplier standards are aligned with our zero-tolerance position. We verify the identity and right to work of all direct employees and require that employment terms are communicated clearly, including pay, hours, and entitlements. We also promote open dialogue so that workers can raise concerns about any practice that may indicate exploitation or abuse.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We recognise that the greatest risk of modern slavery often lies within complex supply chains. Waste Disposal Hackney is working to reduce this risk through structured due diligence and ongoing monitoring of suppliers. We expect all suppliers to comply with applicable labour laws, provide safe working conditions, and prohibit any form of forced, bonded, or child labour.

Before entering into new supplier relationships, we assess modern slavery risks based on factors such as location, sector, and the nature of services provided. Where appropriate, we conduct supplier audits, which may include site visits, workforce interviews, and the review of employment records and labour practices. Existing suppliers are subject to periodic audits and performance reviews, and we reserve the right to terminate relationships where serious or persistent non-compliance is identified.

Training, Awareness and Reporting Channels

We provide training and guidance to relevant employees so that they can recognise indicators of modern slavery, understand our policies, and know how to respond to concerns. Training is particularly focused on staff involved in procurement, contract management, site operations, and human resources.

Waste Disposal Hackney maintains confidential and accessible reporting channels for employees, agency workers, contractors, and other stakeholders. Concerns about potential modern slavery, unsafe working conditions, unfair pay, retention of identity documents, or other exploitative practices can be raised with a line manager, a designated senior manager, or via our confidential reporting process. All reports are taken seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly, with appropriate action taken where necessary. We do not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against those who raise concerns in good faith.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We understand that addressing modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires continuous improvement. Waste Disposal Hackney regularly reviews its policies, procedures, and supply chain controls to strengthen our approach. We seek to learn from audits, investigations, industry developments, and stakeholder feedback, and we update our practices where gaps or emerging risks are identified.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed and approved by the senior management team at least once every year. As part of the annual review, we assess the effectiveness of our actions, the outcomes of supplier audits, the number and nature of any concerns reported, and the adequacy of staff training. Updated statements are communicated internally and made available externally to promote transparency and accountability in our efforts to combat modern slavery.