Man and Van South Kensington Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Man and Van South Kensington to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold human rights, act ethically, and promote fair working conditions across all areas of our business.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Man and Van South Kensington operates a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not tolerate any form of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, or any practice that exploits individuals or undermines their dignity and rights. This commitment applies to our own workforce, contractors, agency workers, and all suppliers and business partners engaged in providing goods or services to our company.

All employees and managers are expected to conduct business in a way that respects human rights and complies with all applicable laws relating to modern slavery, employment, and health and safety. Any breach of this policy will be treated seriously and may result in termination of employment or business relationships, as appropriate.

Our Operations and Supply Chain

Man and Van South Kensington provides removals and related services across South Kensington and surrounding areas. Our supply chain includes subcontracted drivers and porters, vehicle and equipment providers, fuel suppliers, uniform and packaging suppliers, and various service providers that support our operations.

We recognise that certain parts of the logistics and transport sector, as well as the broader goods supply chain, can be vulnerable to labour exploitation. We are therefore committed to identifying, assessing, and addressing any risks of modern slavery within our business and supplier relationships.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers and business partners to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. As part of our procurement and onboarding processes, we assess the ethical standards of potential suppliers and their approach to labour practices, worker welfare, and legal compliance.

We require suppliers to confirm that they do not use forced, bonded, or involuntary labour and that they comply with relevant legislation relating to modern slavery and human trafficking. Where appropriate, we may request further information on a supplier's policies, training, and due diligence activities.

We reserve the right to audit suppliers, either directly or through independent third parties, to verify compliance with our modern slavery expectations. If we identify non-compliance or concerns, we will engage with the supplier to address the issues, implement corrective action plans, or, where necessary, suspend or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

Man and Van South Kensington encourages all employees, workers, and suppliers to raise concerns about suspected modern slavery or unethical labour practices at the earliest opportunity. Individuals are urged to report any signs of exploitation, such as withholding of wages, confiscation of identity documents, unsafe living or working conditions, or intimidation and threats.

Reports can be made to line managers or senior management within the company. We are committed to handling all concerns sensitively, fairly, and as confidentially as possible. We will not tolerate any victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith.

Where a report is received, we will investigate promptly, take appropriate remedial actions, and, where required, work with relevant authorities or external organisations. We may also review and strengthen our processes where investigations highlight areas for improvement.

Training and Awareness

We aim to ensure that relevant staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management, understand the risks of modern slavery in our sector and know how to recognise and respond to potential issues. Training and guidance are provided to raise awareness of the signs of modern slavery and the internal channels available for reporting concerns.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Man and Van South Kensington is committed to continually improving our approach to preventing modern slavery. We regularly review our policies, supplier expectations, and risk assessment processes to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, and the nature of our operations and supply chain.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by senior management to ensure its ongoing relevance and effectiveness. As part of this review, we consider the outcomes of any investigations, supplier audits, and internal feedback, and we identify further actions to strengthen our controls and due diligence.

By maintaining a zero-tolerance stance, engaging proactively with our suppliers, and providing clear channels for reporting concerns, Man and Van South Kensington seeks to play a responsible role in combating modern slavery and promoting safe, fair, and respectful working conditions for everyone connected with our business.