Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement for Man with Van Paddington

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Man with Van Paddington in respect of its operations and supply chains. It outlines our commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our business. We recognise our responsibility to act ethically and with integrity and to implement effective systems and controls to safeguard the people who work for us and with us.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Man with Van Paddington provides local and regional removal and transportation services to residential and commercial customers. Our activities are supported by a network of suppliers, including vehicle hire and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and packaging suppliers, and labour and subcontracted service providers. We understand that modern slavery can occur at any point in these supply chains, and we are committed to identifying, assessing, and reducing these risks.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

We have a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and all forms of exploitation. This policy applies to all employees, contractors, agency staff, and suppliers. We do not tolerate any practice that deprives individuals of their freedom or fundamental rights for personal or commercial gain. Any breach or suspected breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in termination of contracts and referral to the relevant authorities.

All managers and those involved in procurement and supplier management are responsible for ensuring that decisions are consistent with this zero-tolerance approach. We expect everyone representing Man with Van Paddington to act in accordance with this policy and to raise any concerns promptly.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We are working to ensure that our suppliers share our commitment to combating modern slavery. As part of our supplier due diligence, we assess the ethical standards and labour practices of new and existing suppliers. We prioritise long-term relationships with suppliers who can demonstrate compliance with applicable labour laws and good working conditions.

Where appropriate and proportionate to risk, we conduct supplier audits or request evidence of their own modern slavery policies, risk assessments, and training. These audits may include reviewing documentation, requesting written confirmations, or conducting site visits. If a supplier is found to be in breach of our expectations or relevant legislation, we will seek corrective action within clear timescales. If improvements are not made, we may suspend or terminate the business relationship.

Training and Awareness

We aim to build awareness among our staff of the signs of modern slavery and how to respond to concerns. Employees in roles involving recruitment, subcontracting, or supplier selection receive particular guidance so they can identify potential risks and escalate issues appropriately. We continually review available resources and guidance issued by government and industry bodies to strengthen our internal knowledge and response.

Reporting Channels and Escalation

Man with Van Paddington encourages anyone connected with our business, including employees, workers, contractors, and suppliers, to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery. Individuals may report concerns through normal line management, senior management, or other designated reporting routes within the business. Reports can be made in good faith without fear of retaliation or detrimental treatment.

All reports of suspected modern slavery will be investigated sensitively and, where appropriate, in confidence. We will take suitable steps to protect reporters from victimisation and will ensure that concerns are addressed promptly and fairly. Where we identify a credible risk or incident, we will consider notifying relevant authorities and working with them as required.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process requiring continual vigilance and improvement. Each year, Man with Van Paddington reviews this Modern Slavery Statement and the effectiveness of the steps we have taken. Our annual review includes consideration of changes in our supply chain, the results of any supplier audits, feedback from staff, and developments in best practice and legislation.

Following this review, we may update our policies, refine our supplier requirements, enhance staff training, and adjust our risk assessment processes. This Modern Slavery Statement reflects our commitment to transparency and accountability and will be updated annually to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and effective.