Modern Slavery Statement
Sutton Cleaners Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Sutton Cleaners takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. Sutton Cleaners is committed to conducting business ethically, transparently and in full compliance with all applicable laws relating to modern slavery and human rights.
Our Organisation and Supply Chain
Sutton Cleaners provides professional cleaning and related services to commercial and residential customers. Our activities rely on a workforce of directly employed staff as well as a network of approved suppliers and subcontractors for equipment, consumables and specialist services. We recognise that risks of modern slavery can exist at multiple tiers of the supply chain, including in the sourcing of raw materials, manufacturing of cleaning products, and provision of labour.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
We operate a clear zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and exploitation. Sutton Cleaners will not knowingly engage with any individual, contractor or organisation involved in such practices. Any confirmed breach of this policy may result in immediate termination of contracts or working relationships, and, where appropriate, will be reported to relevant authorities.
Our zero-tolerance stance is embedded in our internal policies, codes of conduct and supplier terms and conditions. All staff, managers and suppliers are expected to uphold these standards and act with integrity in every aspect of their work.
Risk Assessment and Due Diligence
We regularly assess the risk of modern slavery within our operations and supply chain. This includes identifying categories of goods and services that may present higher risks, such as uniforms, cleaning chemicals and equipment manufactured in regions with weaker labour protections. Where higher risk is identified, we apply enhanced due diligence before entering or renewing any commercial relationship.
Due diligence activities may include gathering information on a supplier’s labour practices, ownership structure and recruitment processes, as well as verifying their compliance with relevant labour and human rights legislation.
Supplier Standards and Audits
Sutton Cleaners expects all suppliers and subcontractors to comply with our modern slavery standards and to implement appropriate controls within their own supply chains. These expectations are reflected in our supplier agreements and purchasing processes.
We conduct proportionate supplier audits that may include site visits, document reviews and worker interviews, where appropriate and feasible. Audits assess compliance with working hours, wage practices, freedom of movement, health and safety, and the absence of forced or child labour. Where non-compliance is identified, we work with suppliers to implement corrective action plans within agreed timeframes. Persistent or serious breaches may lead to suspension or termination of the relationship.
Training and Awareness
We provide training and guidance to relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment and contract management. Training covers the signs of modern slavery, appropriate due diligence steps, and how to escalate concerns. By promoting awareness, we aim to ensure that all staff understand their responsibilities and can identify and address potential risks at an early stage.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Sutton Cleaners encourages all employees, contractors, suppliers and other stakeholders to raise concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be reported through established internal reporting channels or directly to senior management. Reports may be made confidentially, and individuals who raise concerns in good faith will not face retaliation or detrimental treatment as a result.
All allegations or suspicions of modern slavery are taken seriously, investigated promptly and, where necessary, escalated to appropriate external bodies. We are committed to handling all reports sensitively and with respect for those affected.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility that requires continuous improvement. Sutton Cleaners is committed to reviewing this Modern Slavery Statement and our supporting procedures at least once every year. The review considers changes in our operations, evolving legal requirements, industry guidance and insights from audits, risk assessments and reported concerns.
Where necessary, we will update our policies, strengthen controls, extend training or introduce new monitoring measures to enhance our effectiveness in preventing modern slavery. This Statement has been approved by the leadership of Sutton Cleaners and represents our current approach to addressing modern slavery and human trafficking within our business and supply chains.
