Modern Slavery Statement — Skip Hire Blackheath
Skip Hire Blackheath is committed to combating modern slavery and human trafficking in all its forms. This statement sets out our zero-tolerance approach and the actions we take across the business and our supply chain. We recognise that the waste management and skip hire sector can be exposed to exploitation risks, and we will not tolerate any form of forced labour or human trafficking in our operations or those of our suppliers.
Our zero-tolerance policy is embedded into company procedures and procurement. We require all colleagues and partners to follow our Code of Conduct and to report concerns immediately. All employees, contractors and temporary workers are informed that exploitation and coercion are strictly prohibited and that any breach will prompt immediate investigation and disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
We operate as a responsible Blackheath skip hire provider and expect the same standards from our suppliers and subcontractors. Our contractual terms require compliance with applicable anti-slavery legislation and set clear expectations around worker rights, working hours and lawful pay. Suppliers must demonstrate transparent employment practices and provide evidence when requested.
Supplier Due Diligence and Supplier Audits
To manage risk we carry out targeted due diligence and regular supplier audits. This process includes desktop checks, risk profiling and on-site inspections where appropriate. Our supplier assessment covers recruitment practices, right-to-work checks and the use of labour providers. We prioritise higher risk areas and suppliers for more frequent review.
Key elements of our supplier audit programme include:
- Verification of employment records and payroll audits
- Interviews with a sample of workers to confirm voluntary employment
- Review of health and safety compliance and accommodation where provided
Where non-compliance is identified, we require corrective action plans and monitor completion. Persistent or serious breaches can lead to suspension or termination of supply arrangements. These steps apply to all variants of our brand: Skip Hire Blackheath, skip-hire Blackheath and other trading descriptions of our business.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We maintain clear reporting channels so that concerns about modern slavery can be raised safely and confidentially. Employees, contractors and third parties can report issues through internal reporting lines and anonymous whistleblowing mechanisms. Reports are treated seriously and investigated promptly by our compliance team.
Reports of suspected exploitation are handled with care to protect victims and witnesses. Investigation outcomes may lead to remedial measures, support for affected individuals and referral to law enforcement or statutory agencies where appropriate. We strongly encourage anyone associated with SkipHire Blackheath to raise concerns without fear of retaliation.
Governance for these matters sits with senior management and the board. Responsibility for implementing anti-slavery measures is assigned across procurement, operations and HR, ensuring that policies are acted upon consistently. We document all investigations, outcomes and follow-up actions to maintain transparency.
We confirm that our approach is subject to an annual review and continuous improvement. Each year we evaluate the effectiveness of our policies, the scope of supplier audits and training activities. The review informs updates to the risk assessment, procurement terms and any additional controls required to reduce the risk of modern slavery in the supply chain of Blackheath skip hire services.
Training on modern slavery awareness is provided to relevant staff and procurement partners. We also include anti-slavery clauses in new contracts and strengthen supplier monitoring. Our aim is to foster a culture where human rights are respected and where exploitative practices are identified and eliminated.
In conclusion, Skip Hire Blackheath remains fully committed to preventing modern slavery. Our zero-tolerance policy, robust supplier audits, accessible reporting channels and an annual review cycle form the backbone of our response. We will continue to evolve our controls, collaborate with stakeholders and take decisive action where risks are identified to ensure safe, fair and lawful working conditions across our operations and supply chain.