Modern Slavery Statement for Ruxley Carpet Cleaners

Ruxley 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, forced labour, human trafficking, and exploitative working practices across our operations and supply chain. We recognise that the risk can exist in any business relationship, and we maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of abuse, coercion, and unlawful labour exploitation.

Our approach is built on prevention, transparency, and accountability. As a carpet cleaning company, we rely on staff, subcontractors, cleaning products, equipment suppliers, and service partners. We expect every person and organisation connected to Ruxley Carpet Cleaners to uphold ethical standards and comply with all relevant labour laws. Any breach of these expectations is treated seriously and may result in corrective action, suspension, or termination of the relationship.

We also acknowledge that modern slavery can be hidden behind complex supply chains. For that reason, our Ruxley Carpet Cleaners modern slavery policy is designed to identify risk early, promote responsible sourcing, and ensure that all workers are treated with dignity. We encourage a culture where concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation, and where all reports are investigated promptly and fairly.

To strengthen our commitments, we require suppliers and contractors to confirm that they do not use forced, bonded, or trafficked labour, and that they provide safe working conditions and lawful wages. Before engagement, we assess supplier risk using factors such as location, service type, labour intensity, and ownership structure. Higher-risk suppliers may be subject to additional checks, including document reviews and targeted compliance questions.

Supplier audits are an important part of our due diligence process. We may conduct scheduled or unscheduled audits where appropriate, either directly or through trusted third parties. These audits focus on employment records, identity verification, wage practices, working hours, and subcontracting arrangements. Where shortcomings are identified, we request corrective action plans and monitor progress. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to make improvements, we will reconsider the relationship.

Our internal controls are supported by staff awareness and procurement oversight. Employees involved in sourcing or managing suppliers are expected to understand the signs of labour exploitation, such as withheld documents, restricted movement, excessive deductions, or poor living conditions. We review supplier performance not only for quality and cost, but also for ethical conduct. This helps ensure that our carpet cleaning operations remain aligned with our values.

Reporting concerns is a vital safeguard. Anyone connected with our business may raise a concern about suspected exploitation, unsafe conditions, or unethical behaviour through our internal reporting channels. Reports may be made confidentially and, where permitted, anonymously. All concerns are reviewed by responsible managers and escalated when needed. We investigate impartially, document findings, and take action that is proportionate to the seriousness of the issue.

We make it clear that retaliation against anyone who reports a concern in good faith will not be tolerated. This applies to employees, temporary workers, subcontractors, and supplier personnel. Our reporting channels are intended to support openness and early intervention, allowing us to respond before harm escalates. In practice, this means every concern is handled with discretion, sensitivity, and respect for those involved.

Training and communication reinforce our zero-tolerance approach. Relevant team members receive guidance on recognising warning signs and following internal procedures if a risk is identified. We also communicate our expectations to suppliers so that ethical conduct is understood from the start of the relationship. Through ongoing awareness, we aim to keep modern slavery prevention embedded in everyday decisions.

This statement is reviewed on an annual basis to ensure it remains effective, current, and proportionate to the risks faced by the business. The annual review considers supplier audit results, reported concerns, changes in legislation, emerging risk factors, and the practical effectiveness of our controls. Where improvements are needed, we update our processes and responsibilities accordingly.

As part of the annual review, we also assess whether our policies, due diligence measures, and training materials continue to reflect best practice. If new risks arise in our supply chain or operating model, we adapt our response quickly. This ongoing cycle of review helps Ruxley Carpet Cleaners maintain strong governance and ensure that prevention efforts remain meaningful rather than symbolic.

Ruxley Carpet Cleaners remains firmly committed to responsible business conduct. We will continue to uphold our zero-tolerance policy, strengthen supplier audits, encourage safe reporting channels, and complete an annual review of our controls. By taking these steps, we aim to protect workers, support ethical trade, and contribute to a supply chain free from exploitation.