Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery Statement for Man and a Van Shepherds Bush
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Man and a Van Shepherds Bush has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. As a local removals and transport service provider, we recognise our responsibility to uphold the highest ethical standards and to treat all people with dignity and respect.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Man and a Van Shepherds Bush operates in the removals and transport sector, providing local and regional moving, collection, and delivery services. Our activities rely on a combination of directly engaged personnel, vehicle and equipment providers, and a range of third-party suppliers who support our operations. These suppliers may include fuel providers, vehicle hire and maintenance firms, packaging and materials providers, subcontracted drivers, and other service providers connected to our day-to-day activities.
We recognise that modern slavery and human trafficking can occur in any industry and geography, and we therefore take active steps to identify and manage the risks in our own business and in the businesses with which we work.
Zero-Tolerance Approach
Man and a Van Shepherds Bush has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, servitude, child labour, and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation that participates in, supports, or turns a blind eye to such practices. Our expectation is that everyone we work with shares our commitment to ethical conduct, fair treatment, and safe working conditions.
All employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to act in accordance with our values and to comply with all relevant laws relating to modern slavery and human rights. Any breach of this policy by an employee may result in disciplinary action, and any breach by a supplier or contractor may result in the termination of the business relationship.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We seek to work with suppliers and subcontractors who demonstrate responsible business practices and respect for human rights. As part of our approach, we require our key suppliers and subcontractors to confirm that they do not use forced, bonded, or involuntary labour and that they provide safe and lawful working conditions for all staff.
Where appropriate and proportionate to the level of risk identified, Man and a Van Shepherds Bush may conduct checks or request information from suppliers about their labour practices, recruitment processes, and use of subcontractors. We may also carry out periodic audits or reviews of selected suppliers to verify compliance with our standards. If we identify concerns or potential non-compliance, we will seek corrective actions and, where necessary, suspend or end the relationship.
Training and Awareness
We are committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery risks within our organisation. Relevant team members are informed about indicators of modern slavery, such as signs of coercion, restriction of movement, withholding of documents or wages, and unsafe or degrading working conditions. We encourage staff to remain vigilant and to raise any concerns relating to the treatment of workers in our operations or supply chain.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Man and a Van Shepherds Bush encourages an open culture in which concerns about modern slavery can be raised without fear of retaliation. Employees, contractors, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery or human trafficking, whether within our own operations or in those of our suppliers.
Concerns can be reported to managers or senior personnel within the business. All reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. We will take appropriate action wherever issues are identified, which may include working with suppliers to improve standards, reporting matters to the relevant authorities, or ending commercial relationships where necessary.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that addressing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility that requires continual review and improvement. Man and a Van Shepherds Bush is committed to regularly assessing the effectiveness of our actions to prevent modern slavery and to strengthening our controls where needed.
This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually by our management team to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. Any significant changes to our approach or to the risks we face will be reflected in an updated statement. By maintaining a robust zero-tolerance policy, engaging proactively with our suppliers, promoting transparent reporting channels, and carrying out regular reviews, Man and a Van Shepherds Bush aims to play a responsible role in helping to eliminate modern slavery and human trafficking.
