Sutton Cleaners Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Sutton Cleaners has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking from occurring within our business operations and supply chains. Sutton Cleaners recognises that modern slavery is a serious crime and a grave violation of fundamental human rights, and we are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our relationships.

Zero-Tolerance Approach

Sutton Cleaners maintains a clear and uncompromising zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, servitude, and human trafficking. This applies to our own operations, our employees, contractors, suppliers, and any other business partners. We will not knowingly work with any organisation or individual involved in, or associated with, modern slavery practices.

All employees are required to uphold the highest standards of conduct and to comply with our internal policies on ethical behaviour, human rights, and labour practices. Any breach of these standards is taken extremely seriously and may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment or contract.

Risk Assessment and Due Diligence

We conduct ongoing assessments to identify and evaluate the risk of modern slavery within our business and along our supply chains. Particular attention is paid to higher risk areas, such as suppliers of cleaning products, consumables, uniforms, and any outsourced services that involve low-skilled or temporary labour.

As part of our due diligence procedures, we expect our suppliers and contractors to demonstrate that they operate in a way that respects human rights and complies with all applicable labour and employment laws. We favour partners who can provide clear evidence of ethical sourcing, fair working conditions, and responsible recruitment practices.

Supplier Standards and Audits

Sutton Cleaners requires suppliers to agree to our ethical standards and to confirm that they do not engage in, or support, any form of modern slavery. Our purchasing decisions take into account the social and ethical performance of our suppliers as well as cost and quality considerations.

We reserve the right to conduct audits or request evidence from suppliers to verify compliance with our anti-slavery expectations. These checks may include reviewing policies, training records, staffing practices, and, where appropriate, visiting supplier premises. Where non-compliance is identified, we will seek remedial action within a defined timeframe. Failure to improve or cooperate may result in the suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Employee Awareness

Sutton Cleaners encourages a culture of openness in which employees, contractors, and other stakeholders feel able to raise concerns about potential modern slavery risks without fear of retaliation. Concerns can be reported to line managers or senior management through existing internal reporting channels.

We provide guidance so that staff can recognise signs of modern slavery and understand how to respond appropriately. Reports will be treated sensitively and investigated promptly. Where necessary, we will work with relevant authorities or specialist organisations to support any investigation and to protect affected individuals.

Training and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach to tackling modern slavery. Relevant employees, especially those involved in procurement, supplier management, and recruitment, receive training on identifying modern slavery risks and implementing our policies in practice.

We regularly review our internal procedures to strengthen controls, raise awareness, and enhance our ability to detect and address potential issues. Lessons learned from audits, reports, and industry best practice are incorporated into our ongoing improvements.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing Sutton Cleaners’ efforts to combat modern slavery rests with senior management, who ensure that appropriate policies, processes, and resources are in place. We monitor the effectiveness of our actions through periodic reviews of supplier performance, incident reports, and feedback from staff.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and evolving best practice. Any significant changes in our business structure or supply chains will trigger an interim review. The updated statement is approved by senior management and communicated across the organisation and to relevant external stakeholders.