Modern Slavery Statement for Skip Hire Lewisham
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the commitment of Skip Hire Lewisham and its associated operations to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in all forms. As a local waste management and Lewisham skip hire provider we recognise our responsibility to maintain ethical standards across our workforce and supply chain. We declare a zero-tolerance policy towards any practices that amount to forced labour, servitude or exploitation.
Our approach to tackling modern slavery is proactive and practical. We insist that every employee, contractor and business partner understands that skip hire in Lewisham must be conducted without coercion. We maintain clear policies that require compliance with UK law and international human rights norms. These policies are supported by training, written contractual obligations and routine checks to ensure that our commitment to ethical labour practices is visible and enforceable.
We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to align with our standards. Our supplier code of conduct details requirements around working hours, safe working conditions and fair pay, and it explicitly prohibits forced labour and child exploitation. To make expectations explicit we publish a short supplier checklist and use targeted assessments, which include:
- Due diligence on recruitment and employment processes
- Verification of right to work and transparent wage records
- Evidence of grievance procedures and worker voice mechanisms
Supplier Audits and Due Diligence
We operate a risk-based audit programme for all third-party suppliers who provide services or goods related to the Lewisham skip hire business. Audits combine documentary review with site visits and interviews. Where higher risk indicators are identified — such as use of labour providers, temporary migrant workers or multiple subcontracting layers — intensified verification is required. Our procurement team works with suppliers to remediate issues and to ensure continuous improvement.
Auditing is complemented by contractual clauses that require suppliers to maintain records, permit inspections and notify us of any material changes to labour arrangements. We use a combination of announced and unannounced checks and expect suppliers to cooperate fully. Non-compliance can lead to corrective action plans, suspension or termination of contracts depending on severity. We will always prioritise the welfare of affected workers in any remediation process.
Training is integral to our programme. Staff involved in procurement, operations and site supervision receive regular training on recognising signs of modern slavery and appropriate response actions. This training includes how to use secure and confidential reporting channels and the process for escalating concerns within our Lewisham skip hire operation.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We provide multiple reporting channels for employees, contractors and third parties to raise concerns. Reports can be raised anonymously and will be treated with confidentiality and care. Our policies clearly state that no individual who raises a concern in good faith will face retaliation. These channels include internal reporting to management and secure escalation routes for sensitive matters.
When a concern is raised, we follow a structured investigation process: intake and classification, risk assessment, fact-finding, remediation planning and monitoring. Our incident response procedures are designed to protect potential victims, ensure legal compliance and support criminal investigations where necessary. We also collaborate with relevant authorities and specialist organisations when appropriate.
Annual Review and Continuous Improvement: We review this statement, our policies and our audit results each year. The annual review assesses effectiveness, updates risk assessments and sets new priorities for prevention, detection and remediation. Our board and senior management sign off on the review to ensure ongoing commitment and resource allocation. As a community-focused Skip Hire Lewisham service, we pledge continuous improvement and transparent reporting on our progress.
In summary, our commitments include: zero-tolerance policy, robust supplier audits, secure reporting channels and a formal annual review to measure impact. We remain resolute that the provision of waste management and Lewisham skip hire services must never be linked to exploitation. By embedding these measures across operations and our supply chain we seek to protect workers, uphold rights and foster ethical business practices.
We will continue to monitor developments in UK law and best practice, strengthen partnerships with suppliers and stakeholders, and update our procedures accordingly. This statement is part of our ongoing endeavour to ensure that every element of our business contributes to eradicating modern slavery.
Signed on behalf of Skip Hire Lewisham — the company retains responsibility for delivering on the commitments set out in this Modern Slavery Statement and will report progress annually.