Modern Slavery Statement for Man With a Van Battersea

Man With a Van Battersea is committed to conducting all aspects of its operations in an ethical, responsible, and transparent manner. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take, and will continue to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our own activities and within our supply chains.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

We operate a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation in any form. This applies to all aspects of our business, including recruitment, employment conditions, subcontracting, procurement, and partnerships. We expect the same high standards from everyone we work with, including suppliers, contractors, and business partners.

All staff, whether permanent, temporary, or agency, must be engaged on fair terms and must work voluntarily. We do not tolerate any practices that deny individuals their freedom or exploit their vulnerability, such as debt bondage, withholding of identification documents, or intimidation.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Man With a Van Battersea provides removals and related services. Our supply chains include vehicle leasing and maintenance, fuel providers, equipment suppliers, storage facilities, and labour agencies. We recognise that certain parts of the logistics and transport sector may present higher risks of labour exploitation, and we are committed to identifying and addressing these risks proactively.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We require all suppliers and contractors to comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws, as well as our own standards on modern slavery. As part of our onboarding process, we assess suppliers based on their ethical practices, including their approach to preventing modern slavery. Where appropriate, we request evidence of policies, training, and compliance mechanisms.

We conduct periodic reviews and audits of higher-risk suppliers to verify that they meet our expectations. These reviews may include questionnaires, documentation checks, and, where relevant, site visits. If we identify any breach or credible concern, we reserve the right to take corrective action, including suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Due Diligence and Risk Management

Our due diligence processes are designed to identify, assess, and mitigate the risk of modern slavery in our operations and supply chains. When engaging new suppliers, particularly those providing labour or services closely connected to our core activities, we review their employment practices and their own supply chain controls.

We continuously monitor sector developments, guidance, and best practice to refine our risk assessment. Where we identify elevated risk, we may implement additional checks, request further assurances, or restrict business to suppliers that can demonstrate robust safeguards.

Training and Awareness

We aim to build awareness among our staff and management about the signs of modern slavery and the steps to take if concerns arise. Key personnel involved in recruitment, supplier selection, and contract management receive targeted guidance on identifying risk factors and responding appropriately to potential issues.

We encourage a culture where ethical concerns can be raised openly and are taken seriously. Everyone in the business shares responsibility for upholding our standards and reporting any suspected abuse.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We are committed to providing clear and accessible reporting channels for anyone who has concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to our business. Employees, contractors, suppliers, and members of the public are encouraged to report suspicions to management or through our internal reporting routes.

All reports are treated sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith. Reports will be investigated promptly, and appropriate action will be taken if any wrongdoing is identified.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We are committed to continuous improvement in our policies, procedures, and practices. This includes regularly reviewing our supplier requirements, strengthening due diligence processes, and updating staff guidance.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every 12 months by senior management to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with current legislation and best practice. Any significant changes, actions taken, or new measures introduced as a result of the review will be reflected in an updated statement.

By issuing this statement, Man With a Van Battersea affirms its commitment to operating as a responsible business and to working actively to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within its operations and supply chains.