Modern Slavery Statement

Merton Cleaners Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions taken by Merton Cleaners to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. Merton Cleaners provides professional cleaning services and recognises its responsibility to uphold the highest ethical standards and to protect the rights and dignity of all individuals involved in our business activities.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Merton Cleaners has a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business dealings and relationships, and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls aimed at ensuring that modern slavery does not take place in any part of our business or supply chains.

All directors, managers, employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to share and uphold this commitment. Any breach of this policy by staff may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or contract. Any supplier found to be involved in modern slavery will be subject to immediate review and may have their contract suspended or terminated.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Merton Cleaners operates within the cleaning services sector, employing staff and engaging contractors to deliver services at client premises. Our supply chains include providers of cleaning products, equipment, workwear, facilities services, and related support services.

We recognise that certain parts of the cleaning and facilities supply chains can be vulnerable to exploitation. As such, we focus on identifying and managing risks related to low-paid and temporary labour, subcontracting arrangements, and the sourcing of consumables and equipment.

Supplier Standards and Audit Processes

We expect all suppliers to uphold ethical labour practices and to comply with all applicable laws relating to employment, labour rights, and human rights. Our supplier standards require that:

All work is freely chosen and workers are not required to lodge deposits or identity documents. Workers are free to leave their employment after reasonable notice. Child labour is not used. Wages meet or exceed legal minimums and agreed industry standards. Working hours comply with local law and are not excessive. Workers are treated with dignity and respect, with no threat of violence, harassment, or abuse.

To help ensure compliance, Merton Cleaners implements proportionate supplier audit and review processes. These may include pre-appointment due diligence, self-assessment questionnaires, requests for supporting documentation, and periodic on-site visits where appropriate. Higher-risk suppliers are subject to enhanced scrutiny and more frequent review. Where non-compliance is identified, we work with the supplier to agree corrective actions within defined timeframes. Failure to address serious or persistent non-compliance may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

Merton Cleaners encourages all employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any suspicions or concerns related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Reports may be made to line managers, senior management, or through any established internal escalation channels. Concerns can be raised anonymously where permitted by local law.

We are committed to ensuring that no one who raises a concern in good faith suffers any form of retaliation or detrimental treatment as a result. All reports are taken seriously, treated sensitively, and investigated promptly. Where issues are identified, appropriate remedial actions are taken, and findings are used to strengthen our systems and controls.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

Merton Cleaners provides relevant staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management, with training and guidance on recognising the signs of modern slavery and responding appropriately to concerns. We aim to improve awareness throughout the organisation so that risks can be identified and addressed at an early stage.

We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach to tackling modern slavery. This includes reviewing and enhancing our policies, risk assessments, due diligence, and monitoring processes as our business and the external environment evolve.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery approach sits with senior management, who review key risks, incidents, and improvement initiatives. Performance and progress are monitored through regular reporting on relevant risk indicators and supplier management outcomes.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every 12 months to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with applicable legislation and best practice. Updated versions are approved by senior management and communicated within the business and to relevant external stakeholders. By maintaining this framework of governance, review, and accountability, Merton Cleaners seeks to minimise the risk of modern slavery in its operations and supply chains and to uphold the fundamental rights and freedoms of all individuals connected to our business.