Modern Slavery Statement for Hackney Carpet Cleaners

Hackney Carpet Cleaners is committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and all forms of exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that the carpet cleaning industry, like many service sectors, can involve multiple suppliers, contractors, and labour arrangements. For that reason, our anti-slavery approach is built on vigilance, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Our zero-tolerance policy applies to every part of the business. We do not knowingly work with any person, partner, supplier, or subcontractor involved in slavery, servitude, debt bondage, child labour, or any practice that denies dignity and freedom. This position is embedded in our internal standards and is communicated to managers, staff, and procurement teams. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may lead to termination of relationships or further action where appropriate.

We expect everyone connected to Hackney Carpet Cleaners to uphold lawful and ethical working practices. Our commitment is not limited to direct employees; it extends to suppliers of cleaning materials, equipment, transport services, waste disposal, and other support functions. By maintaining clear expectations, we reduce risk and reinforce a culture in which exploitation has no place.

Risk assessment is a key part of our due diligence process. We review the nature of each supplier relationship, the country of origin where relevant, the type of labour used, and the sensitivity of the goods or services provided. Higher-risk arrangements are subject to enhanced scrutiny. This includes asking for written confirmations of compliance, reviewing employment practices, and assessing whether workers have been recruited ethically and paid fairly.

Our supplier audits are designed to test compliance in practice, not just on paper. Audits may include document checks, labour-practice questionnaires, and where suitable, site visits or remote reviews. We look for evidence of age verification, fair pay, safe working conditions, freedom of movement, and the absence of retention of identity documents. Where concerns are identified, we request corrective action and monitor progress closely.

If a supplier fails to meet our expectations, we may suspend new work, require remedial measures, or end the relationship. We recognise that meaningful change requires persistence, so when a partner is willing to improve, we support them through clear actions and deadlines. This balanced approach helps us maintain high standards across the Hackney Carpet Cleaners supply chain while encouraging responsible business conduct.

To support early intervention, we maintain accessible reporting channels for employees and others who may encounter concerns. Reports can be raised internally through line management or through designated safeguarding and compliance routes. Concerns may relate to recruitment fees, excessive working hours, withheld wages, intimidation, or any sign that a worker is being controlled or exploited. All reports are treated seriously and, where necessary, investigated confidentially.

We encourage speaking up without fear of retaliation. Anyone raising a genuine concern in good faith will be protected from victimisation. We also remind managers that silence can allow harm to continue, so all staff are expected to escalate suspected issues promptly. Where appropriate, matters may be referred to the relevant authorities or specialist support organisations so that affected individuals can be safeguarded.

Training supports our anti-slavery commitments. Staff involved in purchasing, hiring, contractor oversight, and compliance receive guidance on spotting warning signs and responding correctly. This training helps the team understand how modern slavery can appear in service businesses and why responsible labour management is essential. Through regular awareness-raising, we strengthen the ability of Hackney Carpet Cleaners to prevent abuse before it occurs.

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, current, and aligned with our risk profile. The annual review considers audit findings, supplier performance, staff training outcomes, reported concerns, and any changes in law or sector practice. Where weaknesses are identified, we update our procedures, improve oversight, and refine our due diligence methods.

The review process is led by senior management, who are responsible for confirming that the company’s modern slavery controls are being implemented properly. Progress against actions is tracked throughout the year, and lessons learned are incorporated into revised policies and supplier standards. This ensures our response is not static but evolves as risks change.

Hackney Carpet Cleaners believes that responsible business is built on respect for people as well as quality of service. By maintaining a zero-tolerance policy, carrying out supplier audits, offering safe reporting channels, and completing an annual review, we aim to prevent modern slavery in every part of our work. Our commitment is ongoing, practical, and rooted in the belief that every worker deserves freedom, fairness, and dignity.