Man and a Van Brent Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Man and a Van Brent to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting our business ethically and responsibly, and to respecting the rights and dignity of all individuals whose work contributes to our services.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Man and a Van Brent has a clear zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not accept any form of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, and we do not tolerate child labour, servitude, or any practices that deny individuals their freedom, fair pay, or safe working conditions.
All workers engaged directly by Man and a Van Brent must work voluntarily, receive fair compensation, and be treated with respect. We expect the same standards from every supplier, subcontractor, and business partner we work with. Any evidence of non-compliance with our zero-tolerance policy may lead to the termination of contracts and referral to the appropriate authorities.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Man and a Van Brent provides transport and removals services, operating primarily within local and regional areas. Our supply chains include vehicle suppliers, fuel providers, equipment and packaging suppliers, maintenance and cleaning services, and other professional service providers.
We recognise that risks of modern slavery may arise in lower tiers of our supply chain, especially in sectors that rely on temporary, low-paid, or migrant labour. We are therefore committed to identifying, assessing, and minimising these risks through due diligence and active supplier engagement.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to uphold the same ethical standards that we apply to ourselves. As part of our supplier due diligence, we assess prospective suppliers on their labour practices, working conditions, and policies relating to modern slavery and human rights.
Where appropriate, we conduct audits of key suppliers to verify compliance with our standards. These audits may include requests for policy documents, evidence of worker protections, and information on recruitment practices. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to demonstrate that it operates free from modern slavery and human trafficking, we will not enter into or will discontinue our business relationship with that organisation.
We also encourage suppliers to adopt their own robust procedures to prevent modern slavery within their operations and to cascade these expectations to their own suppliers and contractors.
Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities
Man and a Van Brent promotes awareness of modern slavery risks among managers, supervisors, and team members who are involved in procurement, recruitment, or supplier management. We provide guidance on recognising potential signs of exploitation, such as restriction of movement, withholding of documents, or signs of coercion.
Responsibility for implementing and monitoring this statement lies with senior management. They oversee our risk assessments, supplier checks, and any actions required to address concerns raised by employees or third parties.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We encourage employees, contractors, suppliers, and any other party connected to our business to report concerns about potential modern slavery or unethical labour practices without fear of retaliation. Reports may be made to a line manager, a senior manager, or another trusted representative within Man and a Van Brent.
All concerns will be treated seriously and investigated promptly and fairly. Where necessary, we will cooperate with law enforcement or relevant external bodies. We are committed to protecting anyone who raises a concern in good faith and will not tolerate victimisation or dismissal of whistleblowers.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. Man and a Van Brent is committed to continually reviewing and improving our policies, procedures, and due diligence processes to strengthen our defences against modern slavery and human trafficking.
This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed, evaluated, and updated at least once every year. As part of the annual review, we will assess the effectiveness of our actions, consider any changes in our operations or supply chains, and identify opportunities to enhance awareness, training, and supplier engagement.
By maintaining this proactive approach, Man and a Van Brent aims to play a responsible role in eradicating modern slavery and ensuring that everyone connected to our business is treated lawfully, fairly, and with respect.
