Downham Skip Hire - Modern Slavery Statement
Downham Skip Hire is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our operations and supply chain. We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to any form of forced labour, servitude, or exploitation. This modern slavery statement outlines our policies, due diligence processes, and expectations of suppliers and staff.
Our anti-slavery statement applies to all employees, contractors and subcontractors engaged by Downham Skip Hire. We recognise our responsibility under the relevant laws and follow best practice to reduce the risk of slavery and human trafficking occurring in our business and supply chains. We will act decisively where concerns arise.
We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy on modern slavery and related abuses. This means:
- Immediate investigation of any credible allegation;
- Protective measures for victims and whistleblowers;
- Proportionate disciplinary action where employees are involved;
- Termination and remediation steps for suppliers found non-compliant.
Supplier audits, checks and procurement controls
Downham Skip Hire performs regular supplier vetting and risk-based audits across our procurement chain. We incorporate anti-modern slavery clauses into contracts and require suppliers to confirm compliance with our slavery and human trafficking statement. Audit activity includes document review, site visits where feasible and assessment of payroll, recruitment and working conditions. When gaps are identified we put corrective action plans in place and follow up until standards are met.
We expect all suppliers, agents and business partners to share our commitment to an ethical supply chain. Our supplier code of conduct sets out minimum expectations on wages, working hours, freedom of movement and lawful employment. Failure to comply with these standards may result in suspension or termination of trade relationships.
Reporting channels and whistleblowing
Downham Skip Hire provides secure and confidential reporting channels for employees, contractors and third parties to raise concerns about suspected modern slavery. Reports can be made internally through line managers, HR, or dedicated compliance lines, and we also accept anonymous disclosures through established internal procedures. We protect whistleblowers from retaliation and ensure that every report is assessed promptly and fairly. Clear escalation routes and documentation accompany each allegation to maintain integrity and transparency.
Training and awareness are central to our prevention strategy. All staff receive mandatory training on recognising the signs of forced labour and exploitation, and managers receive enhanced guidance on responding to concerns. Communications emphasise that addressing modern slavery is a shared responsibility at every level of the company.
We maintain an active programme of continuous improvement. Risk assessments are refreshed periodically to reflect changes in our operations, markets and supplier base. When supply chains expand or we introduce new categories of goods and services, we conduct additional due diligence to mitigate exposure to modern slavery risks.
As part of our slavery policy, remediation can include working with suppliers to implement corrective measures, terminating contracts where necessary, and assisting affected workers through collaboration with relevant agencies. We aim to remedy harm wherever possible and proportionate to the situation.
Downham Skip Hire publishes this modern slavery and human trafficking statement to demonstrate our commitment and transparency. We will continue to strengthen controls, improve supplier engagement and reinforce a culture of vigilance and ethical practice across the business.
Annual review and governance: our Board and senior management review progress against our anti-slavery objectives every year. This annual review covers policy effectiveness, audit outcomes, training completion rates, and any incidents and remediation activities. Findings are used to update our program, improve supplier oversight and allocate resources to priority areas.
By maintaining robust policies, targeted supplier audits, clear reporting channels and a scheduled annual review, Downham Skip Hire reaffirms its firm opposition to modern slavery. This anti-modern slavery statement is endorsed at the highest level and implemented throughout the organisation to ensure sustained compliance and ethical conduct.
Signed and approved by the Board of Directors of Downham Skip Hire.