Barnes Cleaner Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Barnes Cleaner has taken, and continues to take, to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not taking place within our own operations or in our supply chains. It applies to all employees, agency staff, contractors, and suppliers that provide goods or services to Barnes Cleaner.

Barnes Cleaner recognises that modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights. It includes slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships, and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to combat modern slavery in all its forms.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

Barnes Cleaner operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not accept, condone, or ignore any practice that could constitute exploitation, coercion, or abuse of vulnerable individuals in our business or supply chains. Any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery will be treated as a serious breach of our standards, investigated promptly, and may result in the termination of employment or commercial relationships, as well as reporting to the appropriate authorities where necessary.

All staff are required to comply with our policies on ethical conduct, human rights, and labour standards. Managers are responsible for promoting awareness of modern slavery risks within their teams, ensuring that workers are treated with dignity and respect, and that all work is undertaken voluntarily and with fair remuneration.

Supply Chain Standards and Audits

Our supply chain includes providers of cleaning products, equipment, and associated services. We expect all suppliers to uphold the same high standards of ethics and labour practices that we apply within our own business. Suppliers must comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws and must not use forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, or employ workers under conditions of coercion or deception.

Before entering into or renewing contracts, we assess suppliers against our ethical sourcing criteria, which include modern slavery risk. Where appropriate, we seek written confirmation of compliance with modern slavery legislation and our own standards. We reserve the right to conduct audits or request evidence to verify compliance, particularly for higher-risk categories of suppliers or geographical areas.

If an audit or assessment identifies non-compliance, the supplier will be required to implement a corrective action plan within a specified timeframe. Failure to do so, or evidence of serious exploitation, may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Safe Channels

Barnes Cleaner encourages a culture of openness so that concerns about modern slavery or unethical behaviour can be raised without fear of reprisal. All employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to speak up if they suspect that modern slavery may be occurring in any part of our operations or supply chain.

Concerns can be raised directly to line managers, senior management, or via our internal reporting procedures. Reports will be handled sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. We will investigate all concerns promptly, take appropriate remedial action, and cooperate with law enforcement or regulatory bodies as required. No individual will suffer detrimental treatment for raising a concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff. Relevant employees receive information and guidance on recognising indicators of exploitation, understanding our zero-tolerance stance, and knowing how to raise concerns. We also encourage key suppliers to develop their own measures for identifying and preventing modern slavery within their operations.

We regularly review our internal procedures, contractual terms, and supplier engagement practices to strengthen our ability to identify and reduce modern slavery risks. This includes examining working conditions, recruitment practices, and the use of labour agencies, especially in functions or locations that may be more vulnerable.

Annual Review and Approval

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. As part of the review, we consider feedback from staff, suppliers, and other stakeholders, as well as any incidents, investigations, or changes to our business model or supply chain.

The statement is approved at a senior level within Barnes Cleaner, reflecting our leadership commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking. It is made available to employees, suppliers, and the public to promote transparency and accountability in how we conduct our business.

By maintaining strong policies, rigorous supplier oversight, clear reporting channels, and regular review, Barnes Cleaner aims to play its part in eliminating modern slavery and promoting safe, fair, and respectful working conditions for all.