Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement for Man With a Van St John's Wood

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions taken by Man With a Van St John's Wood to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold human rights, promote fair working conditions, and ensure that the services we provide are not linked in any way to exploitation.

Our business provides local transport and moving services, and while our sector is not traditionally associated with high-risk supply chains, we understand that risks can exist at any level. We are committed to continually assessing and addressing these risks to ensure that all individuals connected with our activities are treated with dignity and respect.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

Man With a Van St John's Wood has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, and child labour. We will not knowingly engage with any person or organisation that is involved in or connected to such practices.

All managers, staff, and regular contractors are made aware that any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery must be taken seriously and acted upon immediately. Breaches of this policy by employees may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Breaches by suppliers or contractors may lead to the suspension or termination of contracts, as appropriate.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Standards

Our supply chains primarily relate to vehicle hire and maintenance, fuel providers, equipment and packing materials, and occasional subcontracted labour for moving services. We seek to build relationships only with suppliers and partners who share our commitment to ethical conduct and respect for human rights.

We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. We also expect them to adopt comparable standards within their own supply chains. Where necessary, we may request confirmation of policies, procedures, and practices that demonstrate compliance with anti-slavery and human trafficking requirements.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

To manage the risk of modern slavery, we apply proportionate due diligence measures based on the nature and location of each supplier. Our approach includes the review of supplier backgrounds, the assessment of the types of work they undertake, and the identification of any potential risk factors related to labour practices.

We reserve the right to undertake checks and audits of key suppliers where there is a potential risk or where concerns have been raised. This may include requesting documentation, conducting structured reviews of their policies, or holding meetings to discuss how they manage employment and human rights issues. Where non-compliance or concerns are identified, we will work with the supplier to address these issues or, where necessary, reconsider the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Escalation

Man With a Van St John's Wood encourages an open culture in which concerns about modern slavery can be raised without fear of retaliation. All staff are encouraged to report any concerns about suspected exploitation, unsafe working conditions, or unethical practices encountered in our operations or supply chains.

Concerns can be raised directly with a manager or with a senior member of the business. Any report will be treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively. Confidentiality will be respected to the fullest extent possible, and we will ensure that no one who raises a concern in good faith suffers any form of detrimental treatment as a result.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, particularly those involved in procurement, supplier management, or recruitment. Internal guidance highlights the warning signs of exploitation, such as indications of coercion, lack of freedom of movement, withholding of documents, or unreasonable working hours and conditions.

As our business and supply chains evolve, we will continue to review and strengthen our processes. We aim to improve our risk assessments, refine our due diligence questions, and maintain clear records of the steps taken to prevent modern slavery in our operations.

Annual Review of This Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure that it remains accurate, up to date, and reflective of our current activities and risk profile. As part of the review, we consider any incidents reported, audit findings, changes in our supply chains, and updates to relevant legislation or best practice guidance.

Following each annual review, we will update this Statement where necessary and communicate any significant changes to our staff and key suppliers. By maintaining regular oversight and continuous improvement, Man With a Van St John's Wood reaffirms its commitment to a working environment and supply chain that are free from modern slavery and human trafficking.