Oven Cleaning Merton Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Oven Cleaning Merton in respect of our financial year and sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights and we are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings.
Modern slavery includes slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour, and human trafficking. Oven Cleaning Merton is committed to ensuring that such practices have no place in our business or in any organisation that supplies goods or services to us.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Oven Cleaning Merton provides specialist oven and appliance cleaning services. Our activities are primarily based within the local community, and our supply chains include cleaning products, tools and equipment, workwear, and selected professional services. While our operations are relatively small in scale, we recognise that the risk of modern slavery can exist at any level of the supply chain, including in the manufacture and distribution of products we use.
We aim to work with suppliers who share our values and can demonstrate robust labour standards, fair working conditions, and responsible sourcing practices.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
Oven Cleaning Merton maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This means we will not knowingly engage with, support, or tolerate any business, supplier, contractor, or individual involved in such practices.
All staff, contractors, and suppliers are expected to act in accordance with our zero-tolerance stance. Any breach or suspected breach of this policy will be treated as a serious matter and may result in the termination of contracts or working relationships, as well as referral to relevant authorities where appropriate.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect our suppliers to uphold ethical labour standards, comply with all applicable laws, and ensure that modern slavery has no place in their operations. As part of our commitment, we will continue to develop and refine due diligence processes when selecting and reviewing suppliers.
Where proportionate and appropriate, Oven Cleaning Merton may request information from suppliers about their own modern slavery policies and practices, including their approach to worker welfare, recruitment, wages, and working hours. We may also carry out checks or audits, which can include reviewing documentation, asking targeted questions, or conducting on-site visits where feasible.
If concerns arise about a supplier’s compliance with our expectations, we will seek clarification and corrective actions. If these concerns cannot be satisfactorily resolved, we will consider suspending or ending the relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels
Oven Cleaning Merton encourages anyone connected with our business, including staff, contractors, and suppliers, to report any concerns related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. We support a culture in which individuals feel safe to speak up if they suspect any wrongdoing.
Concerns can be raised verbally or in writing to a manager or senior member of the business. Reports may include, but are not limited to, suspicious recruitment practices, withholding of wages or documents, intimidation, or any indication that a person may be forced to work against their will.
All reports will be taken seriously, treated sensitively, and investigated where appropriate. We will not tolerate any form of retaliation against a person who raises a concern in good faith.
Training and Awareness
We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our team. As our business evolves, we will seek to provide guidance and information so that staff and contractors can recognise the signs of modern slavery and understand how to respond if they have concerns.
Key personnel involved in procurement or supplier management will be made familiar with our expectations around ethical sourcing and modern slavery compliance.
Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement
Oven Cleaning Merton is committed to continual improvement in our approach to preventing modern slavery. We will review this statement and our related practices at least once every year, or more frequently if needed due to changes in legislation, best practice guidance, or our business operations.
During each annual review, we will assess the effectiveness of our actions, including supplier checks, the responsiveness of our reporting channels, and any issues or concerns raised. Where opportunities for improvement are identified, we will update our procedures and communicate any significant changes to relevant staff and suppliers.
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement reflects Oven Cleaning Merton’s ongoing commitment to ethical conduct, respect for human rights, and responsible sourcing in everything we do.
