Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery Statement for Man and a Van Wimbledon
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Man and a Van Wimbledon to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold the highest ethical standards and to respect the rights and dignity of every person involved in providing our services.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Man and a Van Wimbledon has a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking, including forced labour, servitude, child labour, debt bondage and any form of exploitation. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business dealings and relationships, and to implementing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery does not take place within our own business or in any part of our supply chains.
All employees, contractors and suppliers are expected to share this commitment. Any breach of this policy by staff may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or contract. For suppliers, non-compliance can lead to suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Man and a Van Wimbledon provides local and regional removals, transport and associated services. Our workforce includes directly employed staff and vetted subcontracted drivers and porters. Our supply chains primarily involve vehicle leasing and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and packaging material suppliers, and facilities and cleaning services.
We recognise that certain areas of the transport and logistics sector can be vulnerable to exploitation, particularly through the use of agency labour and subcontracting. We therefore take active steps to understand and manage these risks.
Due Diligence and Supplier Audits
We undertake proportionate due diligence on new suppliers and contractors, with emphasis on those operating in higher-risk areas of our supply chain. This due diligence may include requesting information on the supplier’s labour practices, policies on modern slavery, and evidence of right-to-work checks and fair recruitment processes.
Where appropriate, we carry out audits or assessments of key suppliers. These audits may cover working conditions, pay and hours, recruitment practices and the existence of whistleblowing or grievance procedures. If areas of concern are identified, we work with the supplier to agree corrective actions and timescales. Failure to address serious concerns or repeated non-compliance can result in termination of contracts.
Training, Awareness and Responsibilities
Managers and staff with responsibility for procurement, recruitment and supplier management receive guidance on recognising and responding to indicators of modern slavery. We promote awareness of this statement and our zero-tolerance policy during induction and through periodic internal communications, so that everyone understands their role in identifying and reporting concerns.
Overall responsibility for this statement and our approach to modern slavery sits with the senior management of Man and a Van Wimbledon, who ensure that the policy is implemented, monitored and periodically reviewed.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We actively encourage employees, contractors, suppliers and other stakeholders to report any concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to our business or supply chains. Concerns can be raised with line managers, senior management or through existing internal reporting mechanisms. Reports can be made confidentially, and all concerns will be taken seriously and investigated where appropriate.
No individual who raises a concern in good faith will suffer any form of retaliation or disadvantage as a result of speaking up. We are committed to learning from every concern raised and to taking remedial action where needed.
Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement
We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing process. Man and a Van Wimbledon will review this Modern Slavery Statement annually, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, our business operations or the nature of our supply chains. As part of this review, we will assess the effectiveness of our due diligence processes, supplier audits, training and reporting mechanisms, and make improvements where necessary.
By publishing this statement, Man and a Van Wimbledon reaffirms its commitment to conducting business in a way that respects human rights, prevents exploitation and promotes fair and safe working conditions throughout our operations and supply chains.
