Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Man with Van Islington in respect of the financial year ending 31 December. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains, and reaffirms our commitment to ethical and responsible business practices.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Man with Van Islington provides local and regional removal and transport services. Our activities rely on a combination of directly engaged workers, vehicle hire and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment suppliers, and occasional subcontracted labour for specialist or peak-period services. We recognise that elements of the transport and logistics sector can be vulnerable to labour exploitation and we are committed to identifying and addressing any such risks.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, child labour, and exploitation. This policy applies to all individuals working for or on behalf of Man with Van Islington, at any level and in any capacity, including employees, agency workers, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers.

We expect all those who have, or seek to have, a business relationship with us to share and uphold this zero-tolerance stance. Any breach of this commitment is treated as a serious matter and may result in the termination of contracts or business relationships, as well as notification to appropriate authorities where relevant.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

We are committed to working only with suppliers and subcontractors who respect human rights and comply with all applicable labour laws. As part of our due diligence process, we assess new and existing suppliers against our ethical standards, with a particular focus on recruitment practices, use of labour providers, and working conditions.

We seek assurances from suppliers that they do not engage in modern slavery and that they maintain appropriate policies and controls. Where suppliers themselves rely on subcontracted or temporary labour, we expect them to apply similarly robust standards throughout their own supply chains.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

To support our zero-tolerance approach, we are developing a risk-based programme of supplier audits and monitoring. This may include requesting documentary evidence of compliance with labour and employment laws, reviewing supplier policies and training records, and conducting site visits where appropriate and proportionate to the risk.

If any concerns or non-compliance indicators are identified during an audit or review, we will work with the supplier to develop corrective actions within a reasonable timeframe. Continued non-compliance or unwillingness to address issues will result in reconsideration or termination of the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Man with Van Islington encourages anyone connected with our business, including workers, contractors, and suppliers, to raise concerns about potential modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns may be raised verbally or in writing to a manager or senior representative of the business. Reports can be made confidentially and will be taken seriously.

We will investigate all credible concerns promptly and sensitively, ensuring that no person who raises an issue in good faith suffers any form of retaliation or disadvantage as a result. Where necessary, we will cooperate with law enforcement or other relevant bodies in the investigation of alleged modern slavery or human trafficking.

Training and Awareness

We are working to increase awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff and key suppliers, with a focus on those involved in recruitment, supplier selection, and contract management. Training and guidance will cover indicators of modern slavery, appropriate due diligence measures, and how to respond to concerns or suspected cases.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. Man with Van Islington is committed to continually improving our processes to identify, prevent, and address modern slavery and human trafficking risks in our operations and supply chains.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement will be reviewed at least once every year, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation or our business activities. The annual review will consider the effectiveness of our policies, due diligence, audits, and reporting mechanisms, and will identify further steps to strengthen our approach.

This statement has been approved by the management of Man with Van Islington, who are responsible for its implementation and for ensuring that our zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery is embedded throughout the organisation.