Modern Slavery Statement for Westminster Cleaners

Westminster Cleaners is committed to conducting business with integrity, dignity, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, debt bondage, and child labour within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that the cleaning sector can carry heightened risks because it often involves low-margin work, subcontracting, and varied labour arrangements. For that reason, zero tolerance is central to our approach.

Our Policy Commitment

We maintain a strict anti-slavery policy that applies to all employees, managers, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers. Any form of exploitation is unacceptable, whether it occurs directly within our business or indirectly through a provider. Westminster Cleaners expects everyone working with us to act ethically, comply with applicable labour laws, and uphold fair treatment. We also require managers to identify and escalate concerns promptly, so that possible indicators of modern slavery are addressed without delay. Our policy is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains effective and aligned with evolving risks in the cleaning industry.

Risk Assessment and Supplier Standards

We apply due diligence when selecting and retaining suppliers, and we expect the same commitment from any Westminster cleaners supplier, subcontractor, or labour provider. Our procurement process includes checks on business ownership, employment practices, right-to-work controls, wage compliance, and working conditions. Where appropriate, we request written confirmation that a supplier has its own anti-slavery controls in place. If risks are identified, we may require corrective action, increase monitoring, or end the relationship where concerns cannot be resolved. We also look for signs such as excessive recruitment fees, document retention, restricted movement, or unclear pay arrangements, as these may indicate exploitation.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

Supplier audits are an important part of our modern slavery controls. We conduct periodic reviews of higher-risk suppliers and service partners to assess compliance with our standards. These audits may involve document checks, interviews, site observations, and verification of employment records. In higher-risk cases, we may carry out unannounced checks or request additional evidence of lawful recruitment and fair employment. Westminster Cleaner operations depend on responsible sourcing, so findings from audits are documented, tracked, and used to improve controls across the business.

If a supplier is unable to meet our standards, we will work with them to correct the issue where possible. However, any evidence of coercion, trafficking, or intentional abuse will be treated as a serious breach and may result in immediate termination of the relationship. Our goal is not only compliance, but the active prevention of harm throughout our supply chain.

Reporting Channels and Concern Escalation

We encourage all workers and partners to report any concern, suspicion, or concern-related evidence of exploitation, whether it relates to our staff, a contractor, or a supplier. Reports may be made through management, HR, or other internal reporting routes established for this purpose. All concerns are handled confidentially and, where possible, discreetly, to protect the people involved. No one will suffer retaliation for raising a concern in good faith. This reporting culture is essential to ensuring that Westminster Cleaners remains vigilant and responsive to possible abuse.

Where a report indicates a possible criminal issue, we will consider involving the relevant authorities and will cooperate fully with lawful investigations. We also provide guidance to managers so they can recognise warning signs, record concerns accurately, and act quickly. Modern slavery risks are not always visible, so early reporting and prompt action are crucial.

Training, Accountability, and Annual Review

We provide appropriate training to staff involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management so they can identify risk indicators and understand the correct escalation process. Senior leadership holds responsibility for overseeing implementation of this statement and ensuring that our standards are embedded in everyday practice. Accountability is reinforced through routine monitoring and review of any incidents or control weaknesses.

This statement will be reviewed annually to assess effectiveness, reflect lessons learned, and strengthen our approach where needed. The annual review considers changes in our operations, supplier base, legal requirements, and emerging risk areas. Westminster Cleaners is committed to continuous improvement and to maintaining a workplace and supply chain free from modern slavery. We believe that ethical conduct, careful oversight, and proactive reporting are essential to protecting human rights and sustaining trust in all that we do.