Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement for Man with Van Sidcup

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the approach taken by Man with Van Sidcup to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our own operations and our supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically, with integrity and transparency in all business dealings, and to putting effective systems and controls in place to safeguard people from exploitation.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Man with Van Sidcup is a local removals and transport service provider, offering man and van services to residential and commercial customers. Our core activities include local and regional transport, loading and unloading of goods, and related logistical support. Our supply chains mainly consist of vehicle leasing and maintenance services, fuel providers, equipment suppliers, and occasional use of subcontracted labour for removal and delivery services.

Given the nature and scale of our operations, we consider the risk of modern slavery to be relatively low. However, we recognise that risks may exist, particularly in outsourced labour, cleaning, vehicle maintenance, and other contracted services. We therefore take a proactive approach to ensure that our standards are upheld.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

Man with Van Sidcup operates a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, and exploitation. We do not accept any practice that deprives individuals of their freedom or fundamental rights in connection with work or service. This commitment applies to our employees, agency workers, subcontractors, and all suppliers who provide goods or services to our business.

We expect all those we work with to share this commitment. Any supplier, contractor, or partner found to be involved in modern slavery or failing to take reasonable steps to prevent it will face corrective action, which may include contract termination and reporting to appropriate authorities.

Supplier Standards and Audits

To uphold our zero-tolerance stance, we are implementing supplier controls designed to identify and mitigate risks of modern slavery. When selecting new suppliers or renewing contracts, we seek assurances that they comply with applicable labour laws and human rights standards. We may request information on their recruitment practices, working conditions, and policies relating to modern slavery.

Where risk is identified as higher, we may conduct more detailed checks, including site visits where feasible, review of relevant policies, and confirmation of right-to-work procedures. We reserve the right to audit suppliers periodically to monitor ongoing compliance. Suppliers are required to cooperate fully with any audit or information request related to modern slavery, and to take prompt corrective action if any concerns are identified.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

We encourage the reporting of any concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices, whether within our own operations or in our supply chains. All workers, contractors, suppliers, and customers are encouraged to speak up if they believe someone is at risk of exploitation or abuse.

Reports can be made confidentially to management or through established internal reporting channels. We are committed to treating all reports seriously and sensitively, and to investigating them promptly and fairly. We will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated after investigation.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities

Key members of our management team are responsible for understanding the risks of modern slavery in our sector and promoting compliance across our business. Staff involved in procurement, recruitment, and the management of subcontractors are made aware of the signs of modern slavery and how to report concerns. We aim to integrate modern slavery awareness into our ongoing staff communications and relevant training.

Managers are responsible for ensuring that recruitment is carried out fairly, that right-to-work checks are conducted, and that working conditions within our operations are safe and lawful. We require any labour provider or subcontractor to meet the same standards.

Monitoring and Annual Review

We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach to preventing modern slavery. This statement and the measures described in it are reviewed at least once every year, or sooner if there are significant changes in our business activities, legal requirements, or identified risks.

As part of our annual review, we consider the effectiveness of our policies, supplier checks, reporting mechanisms, and training, and we identify any steps needed to strengthen our controls. We will update this statement where appropriate to reflect these improvements and to ensure our approach remains robust, proportionate, and aligned with best practice.

This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the management of Man with Van Sidcup and reflects our ongoing commitment to protecting people from exploitation in every part of our business and supply chain.