Modern Slavery Statement

Paddington Carpet Cleaning Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Paddington Carpet Cleaning to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting our business ethically and with integrity, and to ensuring that the rights and dignity of all workers connected to our services are respected and protected.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Paddington Carpet Cleaning provides professional carpet and upholstery cleaning services. Our activities are primarily delivered through our directly employed workforce, supplemented by carefully selected subcontractors and suppliers who provide cleaning products, machinery, uniforms, transport services and facility-related support.

We recognise that risks of modern slavery can exist at various points in the supply chain, particularly where products, materials or services originate from higher risk sectors or regions. We therefore seek to build transparent, long-term relationships with suppliers who share our commitment to ethical labour practices.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, child labour, human trafficking, servitude and any other form of exploitation. This expectation applies equally to our employees, subcontractors, agency workers and every organisation within our supply chain.

All commercial decisions, purchasing activities and business relationships are required to align with this policy. Where any supplier or partner is found to be involved in or complicit with modern slavery, we will take immediate and proportionate action, which may include suspension of orders, termination of contracts and reporting to relevant authorities.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We are committed to working only with suppliers who uphold high standards of labour and human rights. As part of our supplier due diligence, we:

Require new suppliers, where proportionate and relevant, to confirm that they do not use forced, bonded or involuntary labour and that they comply with applicable labour laws and regulations. Communicate our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery and make clear our expectations in relation to ethical conduct, working conditions and treatment of workers. Consider the modern slavery risk profile of suppliers based on the nature of goods or services provided, the sector and the geographical location.

We reserve the right to conduct audits or request evidence of compliance from suppliers. These may include requests for policies, training records, workforce information, or independent certifications. Where we identify shortcomings, we will engage with the supplier to develop corrective action plans and monitor implementation. If meaningful improvements are not made within a reasonable timeframe, we may end the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone connected with our business, including employees, subcontractors, suppliers and other stakeholders, to raise concerns about potential or actual instances of modern slavery or exploitation. Concerns can be reported through internal management channels or through any established whistleblowing mechanisms within supplier organisations.

Reports may relate to working conditions, recruitment practices, treatment of staff, withholding of documents or wages, or any behaviour that could indicate forced or exploitative labour. We will treat all reports seriously, investigate where appropriate, and ensure that individuals who raise concerns in good faith are not subjected to retaliation, victimisation or any form of disadvantage.

Training and Awareness

Paddington Carpet Cleaning aims to build awareness of modern slavery risks among relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, supplier management and operational supervision. Training and guidance will cover recognising warning signs of exploitation, understanding our zero-tolerance stance, and knowing how to respond to concerns or disclosures.

We expect managers and supervisors to promote an open culture where ethical concerns can be discussed and addressed promptly and transparently.

Monitoring, Governance and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our response to modern slavery sits with senior management, who are accountable for ensuring that appropriate policies, procedures and controls are in place and are effectively implemented.

We will review this Modern Slavery Statement annually, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, our business operations or identified risks. The review will consider:

Any reported incidents or concerns relating to modern slavery. The effectiveness of supplier due diligence and audit processes. Feedback from employees, workers and suppliers. Developments in best practice and regulatory guidance.

Where necessary, we will update our practices and this Statement to strengthen our approach and to better safeguard the rights and wellbeing of people working in our operations and supply chains.

This Statement has been approved by the management of Paddington Carpet Cleaning and represents our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery in all its forms.