Modern Slavery Statement for Man with Van Walthamstow Village
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Man with Van Walthamstow Village to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to respect human rights and to act ethically in all aspects of our business.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Man with Van Walthamstow Village has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, debt bondage and child labour. We are committed to conducting our business in a manner that respects the dignity, freedom and wellbeing of every individual who contributes to our services, whether directly or through our supply chain.
All employees, contractors and suppliers are expected to uphold this commitment. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in termination of employment or business relationships, as well as referral to relevant authorities where appropriate.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Man with Van Walthamstow Village operates in the transport and removals sector, providing local moving, collection and delivery services. Our supply chain includes vehicle leasing and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and packaging providers, and occasional use of subcontracted drivers or labour.
We recognise that certain areas of our supply chain, particularly those involving subcontracted labour and outsourced services, can present a higher risk of modern slavery. We are committed to taking proportionate and effective measures to identify, assess and mitigate these risks.
Due Diligence and Supplier Audits
To uphold our zero-tolerance policy, we conduct due diligence on new suppliers and periodically review existing suppliers. Our approach includes assessing the risk of modern slavery based on the nature of services provided, the location of operations and the use of temporary or migrant labour.
Where we identify a higher risk, we may carry out more detailed checks, seek additional assurances or conduct targeted audits. These audits can include requests for information on employment practices, worker welfare, recruitment processes and grievance mechanisms. We expect suppliers to demonstrate transparent and ethical practices and to cooperate fully with any reasonable audit or information request.
If a supplier is unable or unwilling to meet our standards, or if we identify credible risks of modern slavery that are not promptly addressed, we will consider appropriate remedial actions, including suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We encourage anyone who works for or with Man with Van Walthamstow Village to report concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised through line managers, senior management or other established internal reporting routes.
We are committed to handling all reports sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. Individuals raising concerns in good faith will not suffer any retaliation or detrimental treatment as a result of speaking up. Reports will be investigated promptly and, where necessary, appropriate action will be taken, which may include engaging with suppliers, improving controls or involving external authorities.
Training and Awareness
We aim to build awareness among our staff and key suppliers about the signs of modern slavery and the importance of ethical conduct. Relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, supplier management and operations, are informed of our policy and expectations so they can recognise and escalate any concerns.
We will continue to review our training and awareness activities to ensure they remain appropriate to the size and nature of our business and the risks we face.
Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the management of Man with Van Walthamstow Village. The review considers any incidents reported, changes in our business operations, developments in legal or regulatory requirements and emerging best practice.
Where opportunities for improvement are identified, we will update our policies, procedures and supplier requirements accordingly. Our aim is to strengthen our controls over time and to contribute, within the scope of our business, to the wider effort to eradicate modern slavery and human trafficking.
This statement has been approved by the management of Man with Van Walthamstow Village and will be updated each year to reflect our ongoing commitment and progress.
