Modern Slavery Statement for Southgate Carpet Cleaners

Southgate Carpet Cleaners is committed to operating with integrity, respect, and accountability in every part of our business. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and all forms of exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that even in service-based businesses, risks can exist through labour sourcing, outsourced services, product purchasing, and subcontracted work.

Our approach is built on a zero-tolerance policy toward modern slavery and unethical labour practices. We do not accept any form of coercion, debt bondage, withholding of wages, child labour, or abuse of vulnerable workers. This commitment applies to our employees, contractors, suppliers, and any third parties acting on our behalf. We expect every business relationship to reflect the same standards of fairness, dignity, and lawful conduct.

To support this commitment, Southgate Carpet Cleaners has established internal controls, including risk awareness training, record keeping, and management oversight. We continuously review working arrangements to ensure that recruitment, scheduling, and pay practices remain lawful and transparent. Where concerns arise, they are treated seriously and investigated promptly. Our objective is to maintain a clean, ethical supply chain that reflects our values and protects workers at every level.

Our procurement process includes supplier audits and due diligence checks designed to identify potential risks before a contract is agreed or renewed. These checks may include reviewing business credentials, labour practices, employment terms, and subcontracting arrangements. Higher-risk suppliers may be subject to more detailed assessment, including requests for policy documents, confirmation of wage compliance, and evidence of worker protections. We also reserve the right to suspend or end relationships where standards are not met.

Suppliers are expected to comply with all applicable employment, health and safety, and human rights laws. They must also cooperate with our audit requirements and provide accurate information when requested. If a supplier is unable to demonstrate compliance, we may require corrective action plans and follow-up reviews. This helps us ensure that our carpet cleaning services are supported by responsible sourcing and ethical trading.

In addition to supplier controls, we provide clear reporting channels so concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation. Employees, contractors, and suppliers may report suspected modern slavery risks, unsafe labour conditions, or unethical conduct through internal management routes. Reports are handled confidentially wherever possible, and every concern is assessed promptly. We encourage early reporting because timely action can help protect individuals and prevent further harm.

Southgate Carpet Cleaners is committed to protecting anyone who raises a genuine concern in good faith. Retaliation, intimidation, or disadvantage for reporting suspected wrongdoing will not be tolerated. When a concern is raised, we may conduct interviews, review documentation, assess supplier records, and, where appropriate, refer matters to the relevant authorities. This process supports accountability and reinforces our position that exploitation has no place in our business.

We recognise that modern slavery risks can change over time, especially as our business relationships evolve. For this reason, we carry out an annual review of this statement and our supporting procedures. The review considers supplier performance, audit findings, training effectiveness, incident reports, and any changes in legal or industry guidance. Where improvements are needed, we update our controls and strengthen our monitoring approach.

This annual review is overseen by senior management to ensure that responsibility for anti-slavery action remains at the highest level. We document key findings, track progress against any corrective measures, and set priorities for the following year. In this way, our Southgate Carpet Cleaners modern slavery statement remains practical, current, and aligned with our ethical standards.

Our Ongoing Commitment

We believe that responsible business practice is essential to long-term success. By maintaining robust controls, performing supplier audits, supporting confidential reporting, and reviewing our position every year, Southgate Carpet Cleaners aims to reduce modern slavery risks across its operations. We will continue to strengthen our policies and processes so that our work is carried out with transparency, fairness, and respect for human rights.

This statement reflects our current commitments and will be updated annually to show continued progress. Southgate Carpet Cleaners remains steadfast in its zero-tolerance approach and in its responsibility to identify, prevent, and address modern slavery wherever it may arise.

Key Principles

• Zero tolerance for modern slavery and human trafficking
• Supplier audits and due diligence for higher-risk relationships
• Reporting channels that protect confidentiality and prevent retaliation
• Annual review of risks, controls, and improvements