Modern Slavery Statement for Paddington Cleaners

Paddington Cleaners is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and with respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent slavery, servitude, forced labour, and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. Our zero-tolerance policy applies to every area of the business, including recruitment, procurement, contractor management, and the selection of service partners. We expect all employees, managers, and suppliers to uphold the same principles, and we will not knowingly engage with any party involved in exploitative practices.

As a cleaning services provider, we recognise that the risk of labour exploitation can exist in industries that rely on temporary labour, subcontracting, or complex supplier networks. To address this, Paddington Cleaners has adopted a clear due diligence framework. We assess business relationships before they begin and continue monitoring them throughout the partnership. Our modern slavery approach is designed to identify risks early, strengthen accountability, and ensure that our Paddington Cleaners slavery statement remains practical, current, and effective.

We are committed to continuous improvement and believe that a strong anti-slavery culture starts with awareness. Staff involved in hiring, procurement, or contractor oversight receive proportionate training so they can recognise warning signs such as withheld wages, restricted movement, excessive working hours, or unclear employment terms. Our internal controls support lawful and fair working arrangements, and our procurement decisions consider ethical behaviour alongside service quality and value.

Supplier Standards and Audits

Paddington Cleaners expects every supplier to comply with applicable labour, immigration, and employment laws. Supplier onboarding includes a review of ownership, labour arrangements, and any use of agency or subcontracted workers. Where risk indicators are present, we may request declarations, evidence of worker rights protections, or confirmation of recruitment practices. We also reserve the right to pause, suspend, or end a relationship if concerns are not addressed.

To support our modern slavery compliance, we conduct supplier audits based on risk level. These audits may include document checks, site visits where appropriate, and follow-up questions on pay, working hours, accommodation, and grievance systems. High-risk suppliers are reviewed more frequently, while lower-risk suppliers are monitored through periodic assessments. If an issue is identified, Paddington Cleaners will require corrective action, time-bound remediation, and verification that the concern has been resolved.

We understand that preventing exploitation is not a one-time exercise. For that reason, our Paddington Cleaners modern slavery statement also covers the wider supply chain, including cleaning materials, uniforms, equipment, and outsourced support services. Any supplier failing to cooperate with our standards may face termination of contract. We aim to work with partners who share our commitment to lawful, fair, and transparent employment practices.

Reporting, Escalation, and Review

Reporting channels are an essential part of our policy. Employees, contractors, and suppliers are encouraged to raise concerns immediately if they suspect unsafe, unethical, or exploitative conduct. Reports may be made through line managers, senior management, or the internal compliance process. Concerns are handled confidentially where possible, and we do not tolerate retaliation against anyone who raises an issue in good faith. Allegations are reviewed promptly and escalated where needed.

Any report connected to modern slavery is treated with urgency. If there is reason to believe a person may be at risk, Paddington Cleaners will take immediate action, which may include separating the affected worker from the source of harm, suspending the relevant supplier relationship, or cooperating with the appropriate authorities. We aim to protect vulnerable individuals while preserving evidence and ensuring that any corrective measures are properly documented.

This Paddington Cleaners slavery and human trafficking statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant, accurate, and aligned with best practice. The annual review considers audit findings, reported concerns, changes in legislation, and improvements needed in our policies or training. Senior leadership is responsible for approving updates and supporting ongoing implementation. Through this process, we reaffirm our commitment to operating with integrity and helping to eliminate modern slavery in all forms.