Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery Statement for Man and a Van West Hampstead
Man and a Van West Hampstead is committed to conducting business in a responsible, ethical, and transparent manner. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all staff, contractors, and suppliers engaged in providing services to or on behalf of our business.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
We maintain a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, and all forms of exploitation. Modern slavery is a serious violation of human rights and is fundamentally incompatible with our values as a local removals and transport service provider.
All individuals working for or with Man and a Van West Hampstead, in any capacity, are expected to uphold this commitment. We will not knowingly engage with any person or organisation involved in practices that constitute modern slavery or human trafficking. Where credible concerns arise, we will take decisive and proportionate action, including termination of contracts where appropriate.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Man and a Van West Hampstead provides removals, transport, and related services to residential and commercial customers. Our operations involve our employed staff, self-employed drivers and porters, and a range of suppliers who provide vehicles, fuel, equipment, uniforms, facilities, and ancillary services.
We recognise that modern slavery risks can arise at various stages of the supply chain, particularly where subcontracted labour, outsourced services, or imported goods are involved. We aim to work only with reputable suppliers who share our commitment to ethical conduct and compliance with applicable laws.
Due Diligence and Supplier Audits
To reduce the risk of modern slavery in our supply chains, we are implementing proportionate due diligence and monitoring measures. These include assessing new suppliers for their labour practices and ethical standards as part of our onboarding process. Wherever practical, suppliers are required to confirm their compliance with modern slavery and human rights laws and to demonstrate that they have taken steps to prevent exploitation in their own operations and supply chains.
We reserve the right to conduct audits or request evidence of compliance from key suppliers and contractors. This may include reviewing policies, training records, recruitment practices, and evidence of right-to-work checks. Where we identify potential risks or non-compliance, we will work with suppliers to address issues within a reasonable timeframe or, if necessary, reconsider our commercial relationship.
Staff Awareness, Training, and Responsibilities
All staff and regular contractors are expected to familiarise themselves with this statement and to act in accordance with its principles. Managers and supervisors are responsible for promoting awareness of modern slavery risks within their teams and for escalating any concerns without delay.
Where relevant, we will provide training or guidance to staff members who are involved in procurement, recruitment, or supplier management so they can recognise signs of exploitation and understand how to respond appropriately.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels
We encourage anyone associated with Man and a Van West Hampstead, including employees, contractors, suppliers, and customers, to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery or human trafficking. Concerns may relate to our own operations or to any organisation connected with our supply chains.
Reports can be made to a line manager or senior member of management. We will treat all concerns seriously, handle information sensitively, and protect individuals who raise concerns in good faith from victimisation or retaliation. Where necessary, we may report matters to relevant authorities and cooperate fully with any investigations.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We are committed to regularly reviewing and improving our policies, procedures, and controls to respond to emerging risks and best practice. This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least once every 12 months, or more frequently if there are significant changes in our business, legal requirements, or identified risks.
As part of the annual review, we will assess the effectiveness of our actions, consider feedback from staff and stakeholders, and identify areas for further improvement. Any updates to this statement will be approved by senior management and communicated internally and externally as appropriate.
Approval
This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the management of Man and a Van West Hampstead, who take overall responsibility for ensuring its implementation and for fostering a culture that actively opposes all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking.
