Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery Statement for Man and a Van Richmond upon Thames
Man and a Van Richmond upon Thames is committed to conducting all aspects of our removals and transport operations with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement outlines the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business and our supply chains.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
We operate a clear zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, servitude, and human trafficking. This applies to everyone working for or on behalf of Man and a Van Richmond upon Thames, including employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers. We are committed to acting ethically and transparently in all our relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls that seek to ensure modern slavery is not taking place anywhere in our operations.
All individuals engaged by the business are expected to uphold this commitment and to act in a way that supports the protection of human rights, fair working conditions, and lawful employment practices.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Man and a Van Richmond upon Thames provides local and regional moving, transport, and related services. Our primary suppliers include vehicle leasing and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, packaging and materials suppliers, and occasional subcontracted transport services. We recognise that modern slavery risks can exist at any stage of a supply chain, particularly where there is use of low-paid, temporary, or migrant labour.
We aim to build long-term, transparent relationships with suppliers that share our values and that are willing to work with us to prevent exploitation and abuse.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to comply with applicable employment, labour, and human rights laws and to actively work to eliminate modern slavery and human trafficking in their own operations and supply chains. As part of our supplier management approach, we may request information about working practices, recruitment methods, and employment conditions.
Where we identify suppliers or contractors as higher risk, we may undertake audits or request evidence of compliance, such as policies, training records, or statements on modern slavery and human rights. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to demonstrate suitable standards, we will consider appropriate actions, which may include support to improve practices or, where necessary, the termination of the business relationship.
Employee Awareness and Responsibilities
Everyone working for Man and a Van Richmond upon Thames has a responsibility to help identify and prevent modern slavery. We aim to promote awareness of the signs of exploitation, such as withholding of wages or documents, intimidation, or restrictions on movement. Managers are expected to foster a culture in which concerns can be raised without fear of victimisation and to ensure that any reports are treated seriously and sensitively.
Reporting Channels and Handling Concerns
We encourage anyone who has concerns or suspicions about potential modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our operations or supply chains to report them as soon as possible. Concerns can be raised directly with a line manager, with senior management, or through any internal reporting channel made available by the company. Reports will be handled promptly, sensitively, and, where reasonably possible, confidentially.
We will investigate credible concerns and, where appropriate, take action which may include engaging with the relevant supplier, adjusting our working arrangements, or reporting matters to the appropriate authorities in line with applicable laws.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Man and a Van Richmond upon Thames is committed to continual improvement in our approach to tackling modern slavery. We will review this Modern Slavery Statement at least once every 12 months, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, our operations, or the nature of risks identified in our supply chains.
The annual review will consider the effectiveness of our policies, any incidents or concerns raised, the outcomes of any supplier assessments or audits, and opportunities to strengthen training, communication, and monitoring. Where improvements are identified, we will update our processes and communicate the changes to relevant staff and suppliers.
This statement demonstrates our ongoing commitment to acting ethically, supporting the protection of human rights, and working proactively to ensure that modern slavery has no place in our business or supply chains.
