Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Man and Van Elephant and Castle is committed to conducting all of its business activities ethically, transparently, and in full compliance with applicable laws relating to modern slavery and human trafficking. This statement sets out our approach to identifying, preventing, and addressing risks of modern slavery within our operations and supply chains.

We recognise that modern slavery is a serious crime and a grave violation of fundamental human rights. It can take many forms, including forced labour, debt bondage, human trafficking, child labour, and other forms of exploitation. We are committed to doing all that we reasonably can to ensure that such practices have no place in our business or among those who supply goods and services to us.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Man and Van Elephant and Castle has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, organisation, supplier, or contractor involved in, or benefiting from, any form of modern slavery.

All staff, including permanent, temporary, agency and contract workers, are expected to uphold this commitment. Any breach of this policy by an employee may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Any supplier or business partner found to be in breach may face suspension or termination of our commercial relationship.

Our Operations and Supply Chains

Our core services involve the provision of man and van, removals, and related logistical support in and around Elephant and Castle and the wider London area. Our supply chains include vehicle hire and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and packaging suppliers, recruitment agencies, and other service providers supporting our operations.

While we consider the overall risk of modern slavery within our own direct operations to be low, we acknowledge that risks may exist within extended supply chains, particularly where there are multiple tiers of subcontracting or where goods and services originate from higher risk sectors or regions.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We are committed to strengthening our supplier management processes to reduce the risk of modern slavery. Our approach includes:

Conducting due diligence when onboarding new suppliers, including inquiries into their labour practices, recruitment processes, and compliance with relevant legislation on modern slavery and human rights.

Requiring suppliers, where appropriate, to confirm that they have policies and procedures in place to prevent modern slavery, and that they expect the same standards from their own suppliers and subcontractors.

Undertaking periodic audits or reviews, which may include requesting documentation, conducting site visits where feasible, and assessing the supplier’s approach to worker welfare, pay, working hours, and freedom of movement.

If a supplier is unable or unwilling to demonstrate adequate safeguards against modern slavery, we may suspend or discontinue our relationship with that supplier.

Awareness, Training and Reporting Channels

We are working to increase awareness among our staff and contractors of the signs of modern slavery and how to respond to potential concerns. Where appropriate, employees will receive guidance and information on identifying indicators of exploitation, unlawful recruitment practices, and inappropriate working conditions.

Man and Van Elephant and Castle encourages all workers, suppliers and stakeholders to report any concerns relating to modern slavery in our operations or supply chains. Concerns can be raised with a manager or through internal reporting routes made available within the business. Reports can be made confidentially and will be treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively.

We will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. Where necessary, we will seek appropriate external advice or support to investigate and address reported issues.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires continuous vigilance and improvement. Man and Van Elephant and Castle is committed to reviewing and enhancing our policies, procedures, and supplier management practices to better identify and mitigate risks.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement will be reviewed at least annually by the company’s management. The review will consider any incidents reported, outcomes of supplier audits, changes in legislation, and evolving best practice. Where necessary, we will update this statement and our internal processes to reflect lessons learned and emerging risks.

This statement represents the commitment of Man and Van Elephant and Castle to uphold human rights and to work towards the elimination of modern slavery in all its forms within our sphere of influence.