Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
Man with Van Richmond upon Thames is committed to conducting all aspects of its business in an ethical and responsible manner. We recognise our responsibility to help prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. This statement outlines the steps we take to identify, prevent, and address risks of modern slavery in connection with our services.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Modern slavery, in all its forms, including forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, and child labour, is entirely incompatible with our values. We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to every part of our business, including employees, contractors, agency staff, and all suppliers who support our services, such as vehicle hire, fuel providers, equipment suppliers, and subcontracted labour.
We expect everyone who works with or for Man with Van Richmond upon Thames to share our commitment to ethical conduct and to support us in promoting a working environment that upholds human rights and respects the dignity of every individual.
Scope of the Statement
This statement applies to all activities carried out by Man with Van Richmond upon Thames, including domestic and commercial removals, deliveries, and related logistics services. It also extends to all tiers of our supply chain and any third parties acting on our behalf.
Supplier Standards and Due Diligence
We recognise that our supply chain is a key area of modern slavery risk. We seek to work only with suppliers and subcontractors that demonstrate a clear commitment to ethical labour practices. When we engage new suppliers, we assess their approach to labour standards, working conditions, and compliance with relevant laws.
Our due diligence measures include evaluating whether suppliers have their own modern slavery policies, whether they can demonstrate compliance with applicable legislation, and whether they implement effective controls to prevent exploitation. We reserve the right to terminate relationships with any supplier found to be involved in or turning a blind eye to modern slavery.
Supplier Audits and Ongoing Monitoring
We conduct proportionate audits and checks on our key suppliers and subcontractors. These audits may include requesting supporting documentation, reviewing policies and procedures, and, where appropriate, carrying out site visits or meetings. The purpose of these audits is to verify that our suppliers are upholding our standards and are not engaged in practices that could amount to modern slavery or human trafficking.
Where areas of risk or concern are identified, we will work with the supplier to agree a corrective action plan and timeframe for improvement. If a supplier fails to make sufficient progress or shows unwillingness to address issues, we will review the ongoing relationship and may cease working with them.
Employee Awareness and Responsibilities
All staff working for Man with Van Richmond upon Thames are expected to act with integrity and to remain vigilant to potential signs of modern slavery. We promote awareness of the risks of exploitation in our sector, including the use of agency workers and subcontracted labour, and we encourage open discussion about any concerns related to working practices or treatment of individuals.
Managers are responsible for reinforcing our zero-tolerance stance and for ensuring that recruitment and onboarding practices comply with legal requirements and our internal standards for fair treatment.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We are committed to providing safe and accessible channels through which concerns about modern slavery, exploitation, or unethical conduct can be raised. Any worker, supplier, or other stakeholder who suspects that modern slavery may be occurring in our operations or supply chain is encouraged to report their concerns without delay.
Reports can be made verbally or in writing to a line manager or a senior member of the management team. We treat all concerns seriously and, where possible, confidentially. We will not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith, and we will investigate all credible reports promptly and take appropriate action.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Our approach to combating modern slavery is not static. We are committed to reviewing and improving our processes to better identify and reduce risks. Each year, the management team of Man with Van Richmond upon Thames reviews this statement, our due diligence activities, and the effectiveness of our controls.
The annual review considers changes in legislation, industry best practice, feedback from staff and suppliers, and any incidents or concerns raised during the year. Where necessary, we will update this statement and our procedures to strengthen our response and further embed respect for human rights within our day-to-day operations.
Approval and Implementation
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement has been approved by the management of Man with Van Richmond upon Thames. It reflects our ongoing commitment to act ethically, to maintain robust systems and controls to prevent modern slavery, and to work collaboratively with our suppliers and partners to uphold these principles in practice.
