Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by St Giles Carpet Cleaners for the financial year ending 31 December and sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. As a provider of carpet and upholstery cleaning services, we recognise our responsibility to conduct business ethically and to protect the rights and dignity of all individuals who contribute to our services.

Our Business and Supply Chain

St Giles Carpet Cleaners operates locally, providing domestic and commercial carpet, rug, and upholstery cleaning, as well as related stain treatment and maintenance services. Our supply chain primarily consists of suppliers of cleaning products, machinery, equipment, uniforms, and facilities services. We also occasionally engage subcontractors and agency workers to support periods of high demand.

We understand that modern slavery risks may arise in manufacturing, distribution, and labour provision, particularly where subcontracting or temporary labour is involved. Accordingly, we are committed to assessing and addressing these risks with care and diligence.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

St Giles Carpet Cleaners has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, child labour, servitude, and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, business, or organisation involved in such practices. We expect the same high standards from all our suppliers, contractors, and business partners, and we require them to comply with all relevant laws and uphold fundamental human rights.

Any breach of this policy by employees may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Any breach by suppliers or contractors may result in the review, suspension, or termination of our relationship with them.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We are committed to embedding respect for human rights into our procurement and supplier management processes. When selecting and reviewing suppliers, St Giles Carpet Cleaners takes reasonable steps to assess modern slavery risks and ensure appropriate standards are met.

Our approach to supplier due diligence includes verifying the legitimacy of businesses, requesting confirmation of compliance with modern slavery and labour laws, and assessing the ethical standards of key suppliers. Where appropriate, we reserve the right to conduct supplier audits or request evidence that suppliers are monitoring their own supply chains. These audits may include reviewing employment practices, documentation of working conditions, and information on subcontractors.

If we identify concerns or potential non-compliance, we will work with suppliers to address issues within a reasonable timeframe. Where serious or repeated concerns remain unresolved, we will consider ending the business relationship.

Training and Awareness

St Giles Carpet Cleaners is committed to building awareness of modern slavery among relevant staff, especially those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management. We provide guidance on recognising warning signs of exploitation, such as restriction of movement, withholding of documents, or signs of coercion, and on the steps to take if concerns arise.

We aim to foster a culture where respect, fairness, and openness are central to how we work and where staff feel confident to raise concerns without fear of retaliation.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

We encourage employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns related to modern slavery, human trafficking, or unethical labour practices connected to St Giles Carpet Cleaners. Concerns can be raised directly with line managers or senior management, or through existing internal reporting channels.

All reports will be taken seriously and investigated promptly and confidentially, as far as is reasonably possible. We are committed to ensuring that no one suffers any detrimental treatment for raising a concern in good faith about suspected modern slavery or human rights abuses.

Monitoring, Measurement, and Annual Review

St Giles Carpet Cleaners is committed to continuous improvement in preventing modern slavery and strengthening our controls. We will review this Modern Slavery Statement at least once a year and update it where necessary to reflect changes in our business operations, supply chains, or legal requirements.

As part of our annual review we will consider feedback from staff and suppliers, outcomes of any supplier assessments or audits, and any reported concerns. Where we identify areas for improvement, we will develop appropriate action plans, which may include enhanced due diligence, updated policies, additional staff training, or changes to supplier relationships.

This statement has been approved by the leadership of St Giles Carpet Cleaners, who are responsible for ensuring its implementation and the ongoing effectiveness of our efforts to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains.