Man With a Van Barnsbury Modern Slavery Statement

Man With a Van Barnsbury is committed to conducting all aspects of its operations in a lawful, ethical, and responsible manner. This Modern Slavery Statement outlines the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains. It applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers who work with or on behalf of Man With a Van Barnsbury.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, human trafficking, servitude, and any form of exploitation. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, organisation, or supplier that is involved in or connected to modern slavery practices.

All commercial decisions are taken with this principle in mind. We expect our business partners, including suppliers, subcontractors, and service providers, to uphold the same high standards, comply with all relevant legislation, and actively work to identify and eliminate the risk of modern slavery in their own operations.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Man With a Van Barnsbury provides transport, removals, and related services to residential and commercial customers. Our supply chain primarily includes vehicle leasing and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and materials providers, and occasional subcontracted labour and logistics services.

Although our sector is not typically regarded as high risk compared to some industries, we recognise that risks can exist in any supply chain. We therefore take a proactive approach to assessing and managing potential modern slavery risks across our operations.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We aim to work only with suppliers and subcontractors who share our commitment to ethical conduct. New suppliers are assessed against our standards, which include compliance with labour laws, health and safety obligations, and human rights considerations.

Where appropriate and proportionate to the nature of the relationship, we may conduct audits or request evidence of compliance, such as policies on modern slavery, workforce conditions, and recruitment practices. We reserve the right to carry out follow-up checks where concerns arise, and to cease working with any supplier who fails to meet our standards or refuses to cooperate with our due diligence processes.

We expect suppliers to cascade equivalent standards through their own supply chains and to monitor and manage modern slavery risks in their operations.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage a culture of openness so that any concerns about modern slavery can be raised and addressed promptly. Employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspicion or knowledge of exploitation, unsafe working conditions, or unethical labour practices connected to our business or supply chain.

Concerns can be raised directly with line managers or senior management, or through any designated internal reporting channels made available from time to time. Reports can be made in good faith without fear of retaliation or adverse treatment. All concerns will be taken seriously, treated sensitively, and investigated where appropriate. If wrongdoing is identified, we will take decisive action, which may include terminating relationships with suppliers or contractors, reporting matters to the relevant authorities, and reviewing internal controls.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery among our staff and, where relevant, our key suppliers. Employees whose roles involve procurement, supplier management, or recruitment are made aware of the indicators of modern slavery and the procedures for escalating concerns.

We aim to ensure that those representing Man With a Van Barnsbury understand our expectations and their responsibilities in helping to identify and prevent modern slavery risks.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing this Modern Slavery Statement sits with the senior management of Man With a Van Barnsbury. We monitor the effectiveness of our approach through periodic reviews of our supplier relationships, internal processes, and any reported concerns.

This Statement will be reviewed at least once every 12 months, and more frequently if required by changes in legislation, guidance, or our business operations. As part of the annual review, we will evaluate the need for additional controls, enhanced due diligence, or further training to strengthen our prevention measures.

By maintaining a zero-tolerance stance, implementing supplier checks, supporting open reporting, and conducting regular reviews, Man With a Van Barnsbury aims to ensure that modern slavery has no place in our business or supply chains.