Woodside Carpet Cleaners Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions taken by Woodside Carpet Cleaners to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold human rights and to act with integrity in all our relationships. This statement applies to all employees, contractors, temporary workers, and suppliers engaged by Woodside Carpet Cleaners.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
Woodside Carpet Cleaners maintains a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour in any form. We do not accept or condone practices that exploit individuals, restrict their freedom, or deny them fair and safe working conditions. Compliance with this policy is a fundamental requirement for all who work for or with us.
All managers and supervisors are responsible for promoting awareness of this policy and ensuring that working practices within their areas of control are consistent with our commitment to ethical conduct. Any breach of this policy by an employee may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Any supplier found to be involved in modern slavery will face immediate review of our relationship, which may lead to suspension or termination of contracts.
Our Supply Chain and Due Diligence
Our supply chain includes providers of cleaning products, equipment, uniforms, vehicles, and various business support services. We understand that the risk of modern slavery can arise at different stages of the supply chain, particularly where there is a reliance on low-skilled labour, complex subcontracting, or sourcing from high-risk regions.
Woodside Carpet Cleaners is committed to conducting proportionate due diligence on existing and new suppliers. We expect our suppliers to uphold the same standards we apply to ourselves, to comply with all relevant labour and human rights laws, and to maintain transparent and traceable employment practices.
Supplier Audits and Monitoring
To support our zero-tolerance approach, we implement supplier audits and ongoing monitoring activities. These may include requests for detailed information about labour practices, working conditions, and recruitment processes, as well as documentary evidence demonstrating compliance with applicable laws and standards.
Where appropriate, we may conduct or commission site visits, interviews with workers, or reviews of payroll and working hour records to verify that no forced, bonded, or trafficked labour is involved. Suppliers are required to cooperate fully with any audit or review, to provide accurate information, and to take prompt corrective action where issues are identified. Continued non-compliance or refusal to engage with our monitoring requirements may result in the termination of the business relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing
Woodside Carpet Cleaners encourages all employees, contractors, and suppliers to speak up if they have concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices. We provide internal reporting channels through line managers and senior management, and we commit to treating all concerns seriously, sensitively, and in confidence wherever possible.
No individual will suffer any form of retaliation for raising a concern in good faith. Reports may relate to our own operations or to any part of our supply chain. We will investigate all credible allegations promptly and take appropriate remedial and preventive action where necessary. If the concern involves potential criminal activity, we will consider referring the matter to the relevant authorities.
Training and Awareness
We are working to increase awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and contract management. Training and guidance focus on recognising signs of exploitation, understanding our policies, and knowing how to raise concerns. We aim to build a culture where respect for human rights is embedded in everyday decision-making.
Annual Review and Continuous Improvement
This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually by the leadership of Woodside Carpet Cleaners. The review will consider changes in our operations, emerging risks, feedback from stakeholders, and any incidents or concerns reported during the year. Where necessary, we will update our policies, procedures, and training to strengthen our controls and improve our effectiveness.
By publishing this statement, Woodside Carpet Cleaners reaffirms its commitment to combating modern slavery and human trafficking and to operating as a responsible and ethical business.
