Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery Statement for Man with Van Bexleyheath
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps that Man with Van Bexleyheath has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold human rights and ethical standards in all areas of our removals and transport services.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Man with Van Bexleyheath maintains a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. We are committed to acting with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships and to putting effective systems and controls in place to safeguard against any form of modern slavery within our own operations and those of our suppliers.
All managers, employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to support this commitment. Any action or omission that is inconsistent with this policy is treated as a serious matter that may result in disciplinary action, including termination of contracts where appropriate.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Man with Van Bexleyheath provides man and van, removals, and related transport services. Our supply chains include vehicle leasing and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and packaging material suppliers, and various service providers that support our day-to-day operations.
Given the nature and size of our business, we consider the risk of modern slavery within our direct operations to be low. However, we acknowledge that risks can exist in the wider supply chain, particularly where there are multiple tiers of suppliers, agency labour, or international sourcing. We therefore take proactive steps to understand and manage these risks.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers and service providers to operate to the same ethical standards that we apply to our own business. Our approach to supplier management includes:
Requiring suppliers to comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws in the jurisdictions where they operate. Assessing new key suppliers on their approach to ethical conduct and labour practices as part of our selection and onboarding process. Reserving the right to conduct checks or request evidence from suppliers demonstrating compliance with modern slavery legislation and our standards.
Where we identify higher-risk suppliers or sectors, we may carry out more detailed reviews, including documented audits, requests for policies, or confirmation of due diligence processes. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to meet our expectations, we will seek alternative arrangements.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels
We encourage all employees, contractors, and third parties to report any concerns related to modern slavery or human trafficking in connection with our activities or supply chains. Concerns may include suspicious working conditions, signs of coercion, or any behaviour that appears to infringe on the rights and freedoms of individuals.
Reports can be raised through normal management channels or directly to senior management. Individuals who raise concerns in good faith will not suffer any detrimental treatment as a result of speaking up. We are committed to investigating all reports promptly, fairly, and sensitively, and to taking appropriate action where wrongdoing is identified.
Training and Awareness
We are committed to maintaining awareness of modern slavery risks within our business. Relevant employees receive information on recognising indicators of exploitation, the importance of due diligence in procurement, and the procedures for escalating concerns.
We keep our internal guidance under review to ensure it reflects current legislation, best practice, and the evolving nature of modern slavery risks. Managers are responsible for reinforcing these expectations and ensuring that team members understand their obligations.
Monitoring, Governance and Annual Review
Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery approach rests with the senior management team of Man with Van Bexleyheath. They are accountable for ensuring appropriate policies, procedures, and controls are in place and that they are effectively implemented.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually, or more frequently if needed to reflect changes in legislation, our business activities, or identified risks. As part of the annual review, we evaluate the effectiveness of our measures, consider feedback from employees and stakeholders, and identify opportunities for improvement, including enhancements to supplier audits, training, and reporting mechanisms.
By continuing to develop our approach, Man with Van Bexleyheath aims to play a responsible role in preventing modern slavery and promoting fair and ethical treatment for all individuals connected to our operations and supply chains.
