Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Man With a Van Borough in respect of our financial year and sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Man With a Van Borough provides local and regional transport and moving services and recognises our responsibility to act ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships.

Modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights and includes slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour, and human trafficking. We are committed to improving our practices continually to identify, prevent, and address modern slavery risks in our business and supply chain.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Man With a Van Borough has a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any person, organisation, or business that is involved in, supports, or turns a blind eye to modern slavery in any form. This commitment applies to all aspects of our operations, including recruitment, employment practices, subcontracting, and procurement.

All colleagues, contractors, and suppliers are expected to uphold the same standard. Any breach of this policy may result in termination of contracts, cessation of business relationships, and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities. We also expect senior management to lead by example and to promote a culture where ethical conduct is central to decision-making.

Our Supply Chain and Supplier Audits

Our supply chain includes vehicle leasing and maintenance providers, fuel and equipment suppliers, storage facilities, cleaning and waste management providers, and labour-only subcontractors. We recognise that some of these areas may carry a heightened risk of labour exploitation, particularly where temporary or third-party labour is used.

To address these risks, we are strengthening our supplier due diligence and oversight. New suppliers are assessed against ethical standards, including their own modern slavery commitments. Where appropriate, we request information about their labour practices and policies, and we consider this as part of our selection criteria.

We are developing a risk-based approach to supplier audits. Higher-risk suppliers may be subject to more frequent checks, including confirmation of right-to-work practices, use of written employment terms, and evidence of fair pay and working hours. If concerns are identified, we will seek corrective action within clear timeframes. Failure to provide adequate assurances or improvements may lead to suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

Man With a Van Borough encourages all workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns relating to modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business or supply chain. We are committed to ensuring that anyone who raises a concern in good faith will not suffer any detriment as a result of speaking up.

Concerns can be raised with line managers or senior management, or directly with designated management representatives responsible for compliance and ethics. Reports may include suspected exploitation, unfair recruitment practices, retention of identity documents, threats or intimidation, or any behaviour that may indicate forced or compulsory labour.

All reports will be taken seriously and investigated promptly and confidentially, as far as is compatible with a thorough investigation. Where appropriate, we will involve specialist support organisations or report matters to the relevant authorities. We will take remedial steps where issues are identified and will use findings to improve our processes.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We are working to increase awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, operations, and procurement. Training and guidance will cover how to recognise signs of exploitation, how to raise concerns, and the obligations under our zero-tolerance policy.

We are also reviewing our internal policies, including recruitment, subcontractor engagement, and health and safety, to ensure they align with our modern slavery commitments. Where necessary, we will update contracts and agreements to include clear expectations and responsibilities in relation to modern slavery and ethical conduct.

Annual Review and Statement Approval

This statement will be reviewed at least annually to assess the effectiveness of our actions, to reflect changes in our operations or risk profile, and to incorporate developments in best practice or legal requirements. As part of the annual review, we will evaluate feedback from staff, audit findings, and any reported concerns to identify areas for improvement.

The Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement for Man With a Van Borough has been approved by the company leadership, who are responsible for ensuring its implementation and for providing the necessary resources to support our commitments.