Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Man and Van Bermondsey is committed to operating its business in an ethical, responsible, and transparent manner. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, forced labour, and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers engaged by Man and Van Bermondsey.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards any form of modern slavery or human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, organisation, or supplier involved in these practices. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter that may result in termination of contracts, reporting to relevant authorities, and internal disciplinary action where appropriate.

This commitment is embedded in our core values. We believe that everyone working for or with Man and Van Bermondsey should be treated with dignity, respect, and fairness, and must be free from any form of coercion or exploitation.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Man and Van Bermondsey provides removal, transport, and associated services. Our supply chain includes vehicle hire and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, packaging material suppliers, cleaning services, and various professional and temporary labour providers. We recognise that some of these sectors may carry a higher risk of labour exploitation, and we focus our due diligence efforts accordingly.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

We expect all suppliers and contractors to uphold the same high standards that we set for ourselves. Our approach to supplier management includes:

Requiring suppliers to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights legislation in the jurisdictions where they operate. Communicating our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery and making clear that any involvement in such practices will lead to immediate review and potential termination of the relationship.

Where appropriate, we ask suppliers to confirm that they have taken steps to prevent modern slavery within their own operations and supply chains. When considering new suppliers, we assess ethical and labour practices alongside cost, quality, and reliability.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

To reinforce our standards, we conduct proportionate checks and audits on selected suppliers, especially those operating in higher-risk sectors. These audits may include reviewing employment records, checking evidence of age verification, working hours, wage payments, and worker contracts, and speaking with workers where this is appropriate and practical.

Where concerns or non-compliance are identified, we will seek corrective action within a reasonable timeframe. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to make necessary improvements, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage any employee, worker, supplier, or third party who has concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices to raise them without fear of retaliation. Concerns can be raised directly with line managers, senior management, or through existing internal reporting routes.

All reports are treated seriously and handled sensitively. We will investigate any allegation promptly and, where appropriate, involve external experts or authorities. We are committed to protecting anyone who raises a concern in good faith from detrimental treatment or victimisation.

Training and Awareness

We provide information and guidance to relevant employees so they can recognise signs of modern slavery and understand how to report concerns. This includes managers, supervisors, and employees who are involved in procurement, supplier management, or recruitment.

We aim to increase awareness of modern slavery risks within our business so that everyone understands their role in identifying and preventing exploitation.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We review this Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement at least once every year. As part of the annual review, we assess the effectiveness of our current measures, consider any incidents or concerns raised, and identify opportunities to strengthen our procedures and controls.

We will update this statement to reflect any significant changes to our business structure, supply chains, or relevant legislation. Man and Van Bermondsey is committed to ongoing improvement in tackling modern slavery risks and promoting ethical working practices across all of our activities.

This statement has been approved by the management of Man and Van Bermondsey, who take overall responsibility for ensuring that it is implemented and maintained.