Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement for Cleaner Barnes

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions Cleaner Barnes takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Cleaner Barnes is committed to conducting business ethically, transparently, and in full respect of human rights. We recognise our responsibility to identify, address, and prevent any risks of exploitation connected to our services.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Cleaner Barnes maintains a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, child labour, servitude, and human trafficking. This applies to every aspect of our business and to all individuals and organisations with whom we work. We will not knowingly engage with any supplier, contractor, or business partner who is involved in, or fails to take adequate steps to prevent, modern slavery.

All managers and supervisors are required to uphold this commitment and to ensure that any concerns are promptly raised and addressed. We expect all employees, agency workers, and contractors to act in accordance with this policy and with our wider ethical standards.

Our People and Working Practices

Cleaner Barnes provides a safe and fair working environment where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. Employment decisions are based on merit and lawful criteria, and workers are free to leave their employment in accordance with legal and contractual requirements. We do not tolerate threats, coercion, or abuse of any kind.

We ensure that wages meet or exceed applicable legal requirements and that working hours adhere to relevant legislation. All staff are provided with clear terms and conditions of employment and are encouraged to speak up about any concerns regarding their treatment or the treatment of others.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Cleaner Barnes recognises that the greatest risk of modern slavery often lies within complex supply chains. We are committed to working only with suppliers and partners who share our commitment to ethical labour practices. Our expectations are communicated through our internal policies and in our contractual terms, which require compliance with all applicable modern slavery and human trafficking laws.

We carry out proportionate checks on existing and prospective suppliers, focusing on areas of higher risk such as cleaning products, equipment, and outsourced labour. These checks may include supplier questionnaires, requests for policy documentation, and verification of labour standards. Where appropriate, we conduct supplier audits, either directly or through independent assessors, to review working conditions, recruitment practices, and record-keeping.

If any supplier is found to be in breach of our standards or of modern slavery laws, Cleaner Barnes will take immediate corrective action, which may include remediation measures, suspension of business, or termination of the relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

Cleaner Barnes encourages a culture of openness in which concerns about modern slavery, human rights abuses, or unethical conduct can be raised without fear of victimisation or retaliation. All workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspected instance of modern slavery in our operations or supply chains.

Concerns can be raised with line managers, senior management, or through established internal reporting channels. Reports will be treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled as confidentially as practicable. Where appropriate, we will cooperate with law enforcement or regulatory authorities and will support affected individuals, including by signposting them to specialist support services.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

Cleaner Barnes is committed to building awareness of modern slavery risks and our responsibilities. Relevant staff, especially those involved in recruitment, procurement, and contract management, receive training on identifying warning signs and responding appropriately. We periodically review guidance from government and professional bodies to strengthen our practices.

We seek to improve continuously by learning from audits, investigations, and staff feedback. Where we identify gaps or emerging risks, we update our procedures and communicate these changes to our teams and suppliers.

Annual Review and Approval

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every twelve months to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with current legislation and best practice. The review considers audit findings, reported concerns, changes in our operations, and developments in guidance or law.

The Statement is approved by the leadership of Cleaner Barnes, who hold overall responsibility for its implementation and oversight. Updated versions will reflect any significant changes to our approach and will be shared across the business and with relevant stakeholders.

Cleaner Barnes remains fully committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking and to promoting ethical and responsible practices in everything we do.