Modern Slavery Statement for Council Largeitem Collection

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the commitment of our Council Largeitem Collection service to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of the large item collection and related supply chains. Our large item collection program operates with a zero-tolerance policy toward forced labour, child labour, servitude or any practice that deprives a person of their liberty. The council large-item collection teams, contractors and suppliers are required to adhere to this policy as a condition of collaboration and contracting.

Policy and Scope

Our zero-tolerance approach applies across the full lifecycle of the large item collection service, from procurement and logistics to on-street collection and processing. We maintain a clear set of expectations for suppliers, including a Supplier Code of Conduct that emphasises fair pay, safe working conditions and freedom of movement. The large item collection framework ensures that every partner understands that modern slavery is unacceptable and that non-compliance may lead to termination of contracts.

To operationalise this policy we undertake targeted supplier audits and risk assessments. Key actions include:

• Risk-based supplier audits that review recruitment practices, wage payments and subcontractor relationships;
• Contractual clauses requiring suppliers to certify compliance with anti-slavery obligations;
• Site visits and documentary checks to confirm legally compliant employment records and appropriate health and safety practices.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

Supplier audits for the large-item pickup and collection service are scheduled based on risk profile and spend. Audits are performed by trained procurement and compliance officers and, where appropriate, independent third-party auditors. Findings are recorded, and corrective action plans are required where issues are identified. The council largeitem collection team seeks continuous improvement by monitoring remediation progress until matters are resolved.

Reporting channels are central to our approach. We provide multiple, confidential mechanisms to report suspected instances of modern slavery within the large item collection operations or the wider supply chain. These channels include an internal whistleblowing process for staff and a secure reporting route for workers engaged by suppliers. All reports are treated seriously and investigated promptly. We guarantee that no reporter will face retaliation for raising concerns in good faith.

Our expectations of suppliers include clear recruitment standards, transparent subcontracting arrangements and documented payroll systems. We apply proportionate audits and require evidence that recruitment fees are not charged to workers. Where enforcement or remediation is required, we insist on swift, verifiable corrective measures and may cease business relationships where suppliers fail to demonstrate compliance.

We maintain a continuous improvement program for the large item collection service that includes staff training, contractual safeguards and community awareness. Staff and contractor induction includes modules on recognising signs of exploitation, the importance of safe reporting and the obligations contained within our anti-slavery policy. The council large-item collection governance group reviews audit outcomes and ensures corrective actions are tracked to completion.

The council will publish an annual review of modern slavery risks and actions taken in relation to large item collection services. That review will summarise audit findings, remediation steps, training hours delivered and any policy changes. We also emphasise transparency in procurement decisions and embed anti-slavery criteria into tender evaluation and supplier onboarding.

In conclusion, our modern slavery statement for the large item collection and the broader council largeitem collection operations reflects a sustained, organisation-wide commitment. We maintain zero tolerance, carry out regular supplier audits, provide safe reporting channels and commit to an annual review process to assess effectiveness and drive continual improvement. This statement is endorsed by senior management and will be reviewed yearly to ensure policies and practices remain effective and responsive to emerging risks.