Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Harrow Carpet Cleaners is committed to conducting business ethically and responsibly. We recognise our responsibility to identify, prevent, and address modern slavery and human trafficking risks within our own operations and our supply chains. This statement sets out the actions we take to uphold human rights and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Harrow Carpet Cleaners provides professional carpet and upholstery cleaning services to residential and commercial customers. Our activities are primarily based within the United Kingdom. Our supply chains include cleaning product manufacturers and distributors, equipment suppliers, uniform providers, and other service providers who support our business operations.

We understand that modern slavery can occur in any sector and jurisdiction. We therefore maintain vigilance over both direct and indirect suppliers, with a particular focus on higher risk categories such as outsourced labour, raw material sourcing, and overseas manufacturing of equipment or consumables.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We have a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, servitude, and deceptive recruitment practices. This applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers who work with or on behalf of Harrow Carpet Cleaners.

We expect everyone in our organisation, and all parties in our supply chains, to uphold the highest standards of integrity and respect for human rights. Any breach or suspected breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in termination of contracts, reporting to relevant authorities, or both.

Supplier Standards and Audits

To minimise the risk of modern slavery within our supply chains, we aim to work only with suppliers who demonstrate a commitment to ethical labour practices. Our supplier standards include requirements relating to freely chosen employment, fair wages, safe working conditions, and the prohibition of any form of forced or child labour.

We conduct risk-based due diligence on our suppliers. For higher risk suppliers or categories, we may carry out more detailed assessments, request evidence of labour standards policies, and ask for confirmation that they comply with relevant legislation. Where appropriate, we reserve the right to conduct audits or request third-party audits to verify compliance with our expectations on modern slavery and human trafficking.

If a supplier fails to meet our standards, we will seek to engage and improve practices where possible. Persistent non-compliance or unwillingness to address serious concerns may lead to the suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

We encourage employees, contractors, and any third party connected to Harrow Carpet Cleaners to report concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices without fear of retaliation. Individuals are encouraged to raise issues with their line manager, a senior manager, or through any designated internal reporting route that may be in place from time to time.

Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. We are committed to protecting anyone who raises a concern in good faith. Where an investigation identifies potential criminal activity, we will consider referring the matter to the appropriate law enforcement or regulatory authorities.

Training and Awareness

We promote awareness of modern slavery risks among relevant employees so that they can recognise warning signs and respond appropriately. Training and guidance may cover topics such as indicators of forced labour, responsible recruitment practices, and our procedures for raising and managing concerns.

We also communicate our expectations on modern slavery to key suppliers, particularly those operating in higher risk sectors or regions, to reinforce our joint responsibilities in protecting human rights.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to continually improving our approach to preventing modern slavery. This includes reviewing the effectiveness of our policies, risk assessments, supplier due diligence, and training activities.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed at least annually to ensure it remains accurate and reflects any changes in our business, legislation, or best practice. Updates are approved by the senior management of Harrow Carpet Cleaners, who take overall responsibility for ensuring that appropriate systems and controls are in place to address modern slavery risks.

By maintaining a zero-tolerance stance, engaging proactively with our suppliers, providing clear reporting channels, and reviewing our approach each year, Harrow Carpet Cleaners aims to help eradicate modern slavery and promote fair, safe, and respectful working conditions throughout our operations and supply chains.