Modern Slavery Statement
Docklands Cleaners Modern Slavery Statement
Docklands Cleaners is firmly committed to conducting business ethically and responsibly. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers engaged by Docklands Cleaners.
Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery
We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded or involuntary labour, servitude, human trafficking, and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. Any form of abuse, coercion, or restriction of freedom is fundamentally incompatible with our values and business practices.
All managers and supervisors are required to promote a culture of respect for human rights, ensuring that everyone working within or for Docklands Cleaners is treated with dignity. Any breach or suspected breach of this policy is treated as a serious disciplinary matter and may result in termination of employment or commercial relationships, as appropriate.
Our Workforce and Employment Practices
We are committed to fair recruitment and employment practices. We ensure that all workers:
Are engaged on the basis of freely chosen employment, without threats, penalties, or retention of identity documents.
Receive clear information about their employment terms, pay, and working hours before and during employment.
Are paid in accordance with applicable laws, including at least the legal minimum wage or relevant industry standard, whichever is higher.
Have access to rest breaks, days off, and paid leave in line with legal and contractual entitlements.
We prohibit any form of child labour and will not knowingly engage with any party that exploits children or vulnerable individuals.
Supplier Standards and Audits
Our supply chain includes providers of cleaning materials, equipment, uniforms, facilities services, and labour agencies. We expect all suppliers and business partners to uphold the same high standards we apply to ourselves.
We communicate our zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery to all key suppliers and integrate human rights expectations into our procurement processes. Where appropriate, we require suppliers to confirm compliance with relevant labour and human rights legislation and to maintain transparent employment records.
Docklands Cleaners undertakes risk-based supplier audits to assess compliance with our ethical standards. These audits may include site visits, document reviews, and interviews with workers. Where shortcomings are identified, we work with suppliers to develop corrective action plans within defined timeframes. Persistent non-compliance, or any evidence of modern slavery, may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Training and Awareness
We provide training and guidance to relevant employees, particularly those involved in recruitment, HR, procurement, and contract management. Training includes an overview of modern slavery indicators, high-risk situations, and appropriate responses to concerns.
We support a culture in which employees and contractors are encouraged to raise concerns about unethical behaviour without fear of retaliation. Awareness materials are periodically updated to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, and operational risk.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
All employees, agency workers, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery in our operations or supply chains at the earliest opportunity.
Concerns can be raised in person with a line manager or senior manager, through our internal reporting procedures, or via our whistleblowing channels. Reports may be made anonymously where permitted by local law. All reports are taken seriously and investigated promptly and sensitively.
No individual will suffer any retaliation or detrimental treatment for reporting a genuine concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated following investigation.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Docklands Cleaners recognises that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We are committed to continuously improving our policies, processes, and controls to better identify, prevent, and address risks of exploitation.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually by our senior management team. The review considers any incidents, audit findings, changes in legislation, and evolving best practice. Where necessary, we update our procedures, training, and supplier requirements to strengthen our approach.
This statement has been approved by the leadership of Docklands Cleaners and reflects our ongoing commitment to combatting modern slavery and protecting the rights and wellbeing of everyone connected to our business.
