Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery Statement for Man and a Van Balham
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Man and a Van Balham to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to act ethically and to safeguard the rights and wellbeing of all individuals who may be affected by our business activities, directly or indirectly.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
Man and a Van Balham has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation. This applies to every aspect of our business, including direct employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers. We are committed to conducting our services in a manner that respects human rights and upholds the dignity of every person.
All individuals and organisations working with us are expected to share this commitment. Any indication that modern slavery may be taking place within our operations or supply chain will be treated with the utmost seriousness and investigated promptly. Where necessary, we will terminate relationships with any party that fails to meet our standards.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Man and a Van Balham provides local and regional moving and transportation services. Our supply chain includes vehicle and equipment providers, fuel and maintenance suppliers, workwear and packaging material suppliers, and recruitment and labour agencies where used. We understand that the risk of modern slavery can exist at any stage in this chain, particularly where third-party labour or subcontracting is involved.
We are committed to increasing transparency in our supply chain and to working only with organisations that operate ethically and in line with applicable laws and regulations relating to modern slavery and human rights.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers and contractors to comply with our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery. Our standard terms with suppliers require them to comply with all relevant legislation on modern slavery and human trafficking and to ensure that the same expectations are passed on to their own suppliers.
Man and a Van Balham carries out proportionate checks on new and existing suppliers, focusing on those operating in higher risk sectors or locations. These checks may include requesting information on labour practices, reviewing relevant policies, and assessing how suppliers manage their own supply chains. Where appropriate, we may conduct audits or request evidence of compliance measures. Any concerns identified during these reviews will be followed up and, if unresolved, may result in suspending or ending our relationship with the supplier.
Training, Awareness, and Reporting Channels
We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our management team and operational staff. Training and guidance are provided to relevant employees so they can recognise signs of exploitation, understand our policies, and know how to respond to concerns.
Man and a Van Balham encourages all employees, workers, and suppliers to report any suspicion or knowledge of modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business. Concerns can be raised through normal line management or designated internal reporting routes. Reports will be treated seriously and handled sensitively. We will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process and that our approach must adapt as risks evolve. Man and a Van Balham is committed to reviewing and improving our policies, supplier due diligence, and training over time.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the management of Man and a Van Balham to assess its effectiveness and to identify further actions we can take. The review considers changes in our business activities, any issues raised through audits or reports, and developments in legislation or best practice. Updated versions of this statement will reflect any enhancements or new measures introduced to strengthen our response.
By maintaining a clear zero-tolerance policy, scrutinising our suppliers, providing reporting channels, and regularly reviewing our approach, Man and a Van Balham aims to play a responsible role in the wider effort to eradicate modern slavery and human trafficking.
