Dulwich Cleaners Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Dulwich Cleaners in respect of the financial year ending 31 December. It outlines the steps we take to identify, prevent, and address modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. Dulwich Cleaners recognises its responsibility to uphold human rights, protect vulnerable individuals, and promote ethical business practices in the cleaning services sector.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Dulwich Cleaners provides professional cleaning services to residential, commercial, and specialist clients. Our operations rely on a combination of directly employed staff, contracted personnel, and a network of approved suppliers who provide cleaning materials, equipment, and related services. We acknowledge that modern slavery risks can arise at different stages of the supply chain, particularly in labour-intensive industries and in the sourcing of goods such as cleaning chemicals, textiles, uniforms, and consumables.
Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery
We have a clear and uncompromising zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, human trafficking, child labour, and any form of exploitation or abuse. This policy applies to all Dulwich Cleaners employees, contractors, temporary staff, and suppliers. We are committed to ensuring that everyone who works for or with us does so voluntarily, is fairly compensated, and works in safe and respectful conditions.
Our zero-tolerance stance is communicated through our employee handbooks, contract terms, and supplier expectations. Any suspected breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts, and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.
Supplier Standards and Audits
Dulwich Cleaners expects all suppliers and business partners to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. We include ethical conduct and labour standards in our procurement criteria and contract terms. New suppliers are assessed for their approach to worker welfare, recruitment practices, and transparency in their own supply chains.
We conduct proportionate risk-based audits of selected suppliers, focusing on sectors, regions, or product categories where modern slavery risks may be higher. These audits may include site visits, document reviews, and discussions with management and, where possible, workers. Where concerns are identified, we require corrective actions within an agreed timeframe and monitor progress. Persistent non-compliance or refusal to cooperate can result in the termination of the business relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Dulwich Cleaners encourages employees, contractors, and external stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions regarding modern slavery, human trafficking, or unethical labour practices connected to our business. We maintain internal reporting channels that allow individuals to raise concerns in confidence and without fear of retaliation.
Reports can be made to line managers, senior management, or through our established whistleblowing procedures. All allegations are taken seriously and investigated promptly and impartially. Where necessary, we may engage external specialists or work with relevant agencies to address specific issues. We are committed to protecting whistleblowers and ensuring that no one is disadvantaged for speaking up in good faith.
Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement
We provide appropriate training and guidance to our managers and staff to help them recognise signs of modern slavery and understand how to respond to concerns. This includes awareness of high-risk scenarios, responsible recruitment practices, and respectful treatment of workers, including migrant and temporary staff. We expect supervisors and managers to promote a culture where ethical behaviour, respect, and transparency are standard practice.
Annual Review and Statement Approval
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually to reflect any changes in our business structure, supply chains, legal obligations, and best practice standards. As part of the review, we evaluate the effectiveness of our policies, supplier audits, training programmes, and reporting mechanisms. We also consider feedback from employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders to improve our approach.
The updated statement is approved by the senior management of Dulwich Cleaners and made publicly available. Through ongoing review and continuous improvement, Dulwich Cleaners remains committed to playing its part in eradicating modern slavery and promoting fair and ethical working conditions for all.
