Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery Statement for Man and a Van Chiswick
Man and a Van Chiswick is committed to conducting its business with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. It applies to all staff, contractors, and suppliers associated with our business.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, servitude, child labour, and exploitation. We are committed to acting ethically and with due diligence in all business relationships, ensuring that modern slavery has no place in our services, including removals, deliveries, and associated logistical activities.
All employees and contractors are expected to uphold this policy as a condition of engagement. We do not knowingly work with any organisation that fails to uphold the same standards. Any suspected involvement in modern slavery will be thoroughly investigated and may result in termination of contracts or employment, as well as reporting to the relevant authorities where appropriate.
Our Supply Chains and Supplier Expectations
Our supply chains include, but are not limited to, vehicle leasing and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and packing material providers, and occasional subcontracted transport and logistical services. We expect all suppliers to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery and to comply with all applicable laws and regulations relating to labour, welfare, and human rights.
We communicate our expectations to suppliers and make clear that modern slavery, in any form, will not be tolerated. We reserve the right to cease working with any supplier that does not meet, or is unwilling to work towards meeting, these standards.
Supplier Audits and Due Diligence
To reduce the risk of modern slavery within our supply chains, Man and a Van Chiswick undertakes proportionate due diligence and supplier checks. This may include requesting information about labour practices, workforce policies, use of subcontractors, and compliance with relevant legislation.
Where we identify higher-risk suppliers or sectors, we may conduct more detailed reviews and ongoing monitoring. We aim to work collaboratively with suppliers to address any concerns, but we will not hesitate to end relationships where serious or repeated breaches of our standards are identified. Records of supplier assessments and outcomes are maintained to support continuous improvement in our approach.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels
We encourage all employees, contractors, suppliers, and members of the public to report any concerns related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to Man and a Van Chiswick. Concerns may include suspected exploitation, unsafe working conditions, unreasonable deductions from wages, retention of identity documents, or signs that an individual may be under coercion.
Reports can be made to any manager or senior member of the business. Individuals raising concerns are encouraged to provide as much factual detail as possible so that we can investigate thoroughly and fairly. We will treat all reports sensitively and aim to protect those who raise concerns in good faith from any form of retaliation or detrimental treatment.
Training and Awareness
We recognise that awareness and understanding are crucial to identifying and preventing modern slavery. We aim to provide appropriate guidance and information for staff who have responsibility for procurement, recruitment, or managing supplier relationships, to help them recognise potential indicators of modern slavery and understand how to respond.
We will review our training and awareness materials periodically to ensure they remain relevant to our business operations and reflect emerging risks and best practice.
Monitoring, Accountability and Annual Review
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the management team of Man and a Van Chiswick. They are accountable for ensuring that this statement is implemented effectively, that risks are assessed, and that appropriate corrective action is taken where necessary.
This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least once every twelve months, or more frequently if there are significant changes in our business, supply chains, or the legal framework. As part of the annual review, we will consider any incidents reported, outcomes of supplier audits, feedback from stakeholders, and opportunities to strengthen our policies and procedures.
By maintaining a zero-tolerance stance, conducting supplier audits, providing clear reporting channels, and committing to regular review, Man and a Van Chiswick seeks to play its part in preventing modern slavery and promoting respect for human dignity across all aspects of its operations.
