Modern Slavery Statement for Man and a Van Battersea
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions Man and a Van Battersea takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. As a local removals and logistics business, we recognise our responsibility to respect human rights and to identify, prevent and address any risk of exploitation connected to our services.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Man and a Van Battersea operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour and human trafficking. This applies to every aspect of our business, from the recruitment and management of our workforce to the selection and ongoing monitoring of our suppliers, subcontractors and other business partners.
We expect everyone who works with or for us to share this commitment. Any suspected breach of this policy is treated seriously and may result in termination of contracts or working relationships, as well as referral to appropriate authorities where necessary.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Our core activities include domestic and commercial removals, man and van services, and related logistics support. Our supply chain includes vehicle leasing and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and packaging providers, and occasional subcontracted labour or specialist services.
We recognise that certain areas of the transport and logistics sector can be vulnerable to labour exploitation. We are therefore committed to taking proportionate and effective steps to understand, monitor and reduce risks in our own operations and in the supply chains that support our services.
Due Diligence and Supplier Audits
We undertake due diligence on new suppliers and contractors before entering into any agreement and periodically throughout our relationship. Our due diligence process focuses on identifying indicators of poor labour practices, lack of transparency or inadequate governance that could heighten the risk of modern slavery.
Where appropriate and proportionate to the size and nature of the relationship, we conduct supplier audits. These may include requests for information about employment practices, right to work checks, use of subcontracted labour, and arrangements for wages, working hours and health and safety. We expect suppliers to be open and cooperative during any such review.
If we identify concerns, we will work with the supplier to implement corrective actions within defined timeframes. Where concerns are serious or remain unresolved, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship.
Training and Awareness
We promote awareness of modern slavery risks among our team members, especially those involved in recruitment, scheduling, procurement and supplier management. Training and guidance focus on recognising signs of exploitation, understanding our internal procedures and knowing how to escalate concerns.
We also encourage managers to discuss ethical conduct and respect for workers' rights as part of everyday supervision and performance conversations, reinforcing our culture of vigilance and responsibility.
Reporting Channels and Escalation
Man and a Van Battersea encourages all workers, suppliers, customers and other stakeholders to raise any concern they may have about potential modern slavery, human trafficking or labour exploitation connected to our business.
Concerns can be raised internally to a line manager or senior management. We will treat all reports sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. We will not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith, regardless of whether it is ultimately substantiated.
All reports are reviewed promptly. Where appropriate, we will investigate, take corrective action and, if necessary, engage with external authorities or specialist organisations.
Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement
We monitor the effectiveness of our approach through periodic review of our supplier relationships, internal processes and any concerns raised through our reporting channels. We seek to learn from experience and adapt our practices as risks and best practice standards evolve.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by senior management to ensure it remains current, effective and proportionate to the size and nature of our business. The review considers changes in our operations, our supply chain, applicable legislation and industry guidance. Where improvements are identified, we will update our policies, procedures and training accordingly.
Man and a Van Battersea is committed to playing its part in tackling modern slavery by maintaining strong standards within our own operations and by working with partners who share our values and expectations regarding the fair and ethical treatment of all workers.
