Modern Slavery Statement for Barnes Cleaners

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Barnes Cleaners has taken, and continues to take, to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not taking place within our business or our supply chains. Barnes Cleaners is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard against any form of modern slavery.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Barnes Cleaners provides professional cleaning and related services to residential and commercial customers. Our operations rely on a network of suppliers that provide cleaning products, machinery, equipment, uniforms, and ancillary services. We recognise that risks related to modern slavery can arise in the manufacture, sourcing, and transport of goods, as well as in the provision of contracted labour. We are committed to working only with suppliers who share our values and who can demonstrate responsible and transparent employment practices.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We operate a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, debt bondage, human trafficking, child labour, and any practice that denies individuals their fundamental rights and freedoms. This policy applies to every aspect of our operations, including our employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers. All business decisions, partnerships, and procurement activities must align with this zero-tolerance stance, and we reserve the right to terminate relationships where breaches are identified and not promptly rectified.

Policies and Employee Awareness

Barnes Cleaners has internal policies that support the identification and prevention of modern slavery. These include our code of conduct, recruitment policy, and supplier standards. We promote fair recruitment practices, prohibit any form of fee-charging for work, and ensure all staff have written terms and conditions and are paid in line with applicable laws. We provide guidance to managers and team leaders on recognising indicators of exploitation, encouraging a culture in which concerns can be raised confidently and without fear of retaliation.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We expect our suppliers to maintain robust policies and procedures to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking. As part of our due diligence process, we assess new and existing suppliers on their labour practices, sourcing arrangements, and compliance with relevant legislation. Where appropriate, we seek written confirmation that suppliers have their own modern slavery policies and that they cascade similar standards to their own subcontractors.

Barnes Cleaners may conduct audits of key suppliers, either directly or through independent assessors. These audits may include reviewing employment records, inspecting working conditions, and interviewing workers where feasible. If we identify non-compliance, we work with the supplier on a corrective action plan with clear timeframes. Failure to demonstrate sufficient progress can result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage all employees, workers, and external partners to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery at the earliest opportunity. Concerns can be raised with line managers, senior management, or through any established internal reporting mechanism. Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith, and we are committed to protecting the confidentiality of individuals who come forward whenever possible.

Training and Continuous Improvement

Barnes Cleaners recognises that raising awareness is essential to preventing modern slavery. We aim to provide appropriate training and guidance for staff involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management so they can recognise risk indicators and respond effectively. We also review best practices and relevant guidance to strengthen our approach, seeking continual improvement in our policies, risk assessments, and monitoring activities.

Annual Review and Statement Approval

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and reflective of our evolving business activities and risk profile. As part of the annual review, we evaluate the effectiveness of our controls, audits, and training, and identify any additional measures needed to further reduce the risk of modern slavery in our operations and supply chains.

This statement has been approved by the leadership of Barnes Cleaners and represents our ongoing commitment to combat modern slavery and human trafficking in all forms.