Modern Slavery Statement for St Margarets Carpet Cleaners

St Margarets Carpet Cleaners is committed to conducting all aspects of its business in an ethical, responsible and transparent manner. 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, contractors, and suppliers engaged with our business.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

We have a clear zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced or compulsory labour, debt bondage, and child labour. We do not condone, support, or engage in any practice that compromises the dignity, freedom, or fundamental human rights of any person. This commitment is integral to our values and underpins our approach to procurement, employment, and service delivery.

All individuals working for or on behalf of St Margarets Carpet Cleaners are expected to act with integrity and to uphold this policy. Breaches of this policy may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment or contract where appropriate.

Our Business and Supply Chain

St Margarets Carpet Cleaners provides professional carpet and upholstery cleaning services. Our supply chain primarily includes providers of cleaning products, equipment, uniforms, vehicles, and certain outsourced maintenance and specialist services.

We recognise that modern slavery can occur at any point in a supply chain. We therefore expect all suppliers, contractors, and business partners to share our commitment to human rights, fair working conditions, and ethical conduct.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We seek to work only with suppliers who align with our ethical standards. As part of our supplier management process, we communicate our zero-tolerance policy and require suppliers to confirm that they comply with all relevant labour, employment, and human rights legislation in the countries where they operate.

Where appropriate, we conduct risk-based due diligence on suppliers. This may include requesting written assurances, reviewing publicly available information regarding labour practices, and, where possible, carrying out audits or assessments. For higher-risk categories of goods or services, we may require additional documentation relating to working conditions, recruitment practices, and subcontracting arrangements.

If a supplier is found to be in breach of our modern slavery requirements, we will engage with them to seek corrective action within an agreed timeframe. Failure to adequately address concerns may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Employee Awareness and Responsibilities

We aim to ensure that our team members understand the risks of modern slavery and how to identify potential issues. Employees involved in procurement, supplier selection, and contract management receive particular guidance on recognising warning signs and escalating concerns.

All employees are expected to read and follow relevant company policies on ethics, conduct, and whistleblowing. Managers are responsible for promoting an open culture in which concerns can be raised safely and without fear of reprisals.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone who has concerns or suspicions about modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected with our business to report them as soon as possible. Concerns can be raised with a manager or senior member of staff, or through existing internal reporting channels made available to our workforce.

All reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly where appropriate. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any individual who raises a concern in good faith. Where necessary, we will work with relevant authorities and external experts to address credible allegations.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that combating modern slavery requires ongoing vigilance and improvement. We will continue to review our policies, procedures, and supplier engagement to strengthen our approach. Factors considered may include changes in legislation, updates in industry best practice, and insights gained from internal assessments or external guidance.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least once every twelve months by senior management to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness. Updated versions will reflect any significant changes in our business operations or the measures we take to prevent modern slavery.

This statement has been approved by the management of St Margarets Carpet Cleaners and represents our commitment to advancing ethical labour standards across our operations and supply chains.