Modern Slavery Statement for Friern Barnet Carpet Cleaners

Friern Barnet Carpet Cleaners is committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent forced labour, human trafficking, and all other forms of exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery can affect many sectors, including cleaning services, transport, equipment supply, and outsourced support functions. For that reason, zero tolerance is central to how Friern Barnet carpet cleaners operates.

Our approach begins with clear internal standards. Every team member involved in hiring, procurement, or subcontracting must follow our ethical business rules, which prohibit the use of child labour, coerced labour, withheld wages, passport retention, and unsafe working conditions. We expect the same commitment from all suppliers and partners associated with carpet cleaning in Friern Barnet. Any breach of these standards is treated as a serious matter and may result in immediate termination of the relationship.

To support this, we provide training so staff can identify warning signs such as unusual recruitment practices, restricted movement, dependency on employers, or workers appearing unable to speak freely. By building awareness across the business, Friern Barnet Carpet Cleaners strengthens its ability to detect and prevent abuse early.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We maintain a robust supplier screening process before entering into any commercial relationship. Suppliers must confirm that they comply with applicable labour laws and uphold ethical employment practices. For higher-risk categories, including labour agencies, equipment providers, and outsourced cleaning support, we conduct enhanced due diligence. This may include checking company policies, employment records, wage practices, and subcontracting arrangements.

In addition, supplier audits are carried out on a periodic and risk-based basis. These audits may be announced or unannounced, depending on the nature of the relationship and the level of risk identified. During each audit, we assess whether workers are freely employed, properly paid, and able to raise concerns without fear of retaliation. Where gaps are found, suppliers must implement corrective actions within a defined timeframe.

If a supplier fails to meet our standards, we may suspend further work, require remediation, or end the contract. Our procurement decisions are guided not only by quality and price, but also by ethical responsibility. This is a core part of how Friern Barnet carpet cleaners maintains a responsible and transparent supply chain.

Reporting Channels and Speaking Up

We encourage workers, contractors, suppliers, and third parties to report any suspicion of modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Reporting can be made through internal management routes, to the designated compliance lead, or through any trusted supervisor. Concerns may relate to recruitment fees, intimidation, restricted movement, unsafe housing, or any sign that a person may be controlled by another party.

All reports are treated seriously and investigated promptly, fairly, and confidentially where possible. We do not tolerate retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. This protection applies whether the report involves our own operations or a supplier connected to Friern Barnet carpet cleaning. If a serious issue is identified, we work with relevant parties to stop the abuse, support affected individuals, and review the relationship to prevent recurrence.

Reporting channels are an essential safeguard because modern slavery often remains hidden. By making it safe to speak up, Friern Barnet Carpet Cleaners helps create an environment where exploitation is less likely to survive unnoticed.

Monitoring, Accountability, and Annual Review

Responsibility for implementing this statement rests with senior management, who oversee risk controls, supplier assessment, and corrective action. Records of due diligence, audit findings, and any investigations are reviewed regularly so that trends can be identified and addressed. Where risks increase, we strengthen our controls and adapt our procedures accordingly.

We also recognise that modern slavery risks can change over time as markets, staffing models, and supply chains evolve. For that reason, this statement is subject to an annual review. Each year, we assess the effectiveness of our policies, training, supplier audits, and reporting channels, and we update our approach where needed. This review helps ensure continuous improvement and accountability across Friern Barnet carpet cleaners and its partners.

Our commitment is ongoing. Zero tolerance, careful supplier audits, secure reporting routes, and annual review together form the foundation of our stance against exploitation. Through these measures, Friern Barnet Carpet Cleaners aims to contribute to a safer, more ethical industry and to uphold the dignity of every person connected with our business.