Modern Slavery Commitment at Man with Van Islington

Man with Van Islington is firmly committed to conducting all aspects of its business in an ethical and responsible manner. We recognise that modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation are severe violations of fundamental human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery in our operations and supply chains, and to promote respect, fairness, and transparency in everything we do.

This statement applies to all individuals working for or on behalf of Man with Van Islington, including employees, temporary staff, contractors, and suppliers providing goods or services associated with our moving and transport operations.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We operate a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. Any form of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour is strictly prohibited in our business and in our supply chains. We expect the same clear and uncompromising standards from all third parties that work with us.

All existing and prospective business partners, including labour providers, vehicle hire companies, storage facilities, equipment suppliers, and service subcontractors, are required to share our commitment to eradicating modern slavery. Where we identify a risk or breach, we will act promptly to investigate, address the issue, and, if necessary, terminate the relationship.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Standards

Our supply chains primarily involve the procurement of vehicles, fuel, packing materials, storage solutions, equipment, and a range of professional and maintenance services. We endeavour to work only with reputable suppliers who can demonstrate compliance with applicable labour laws and ethical standards.

Supplier expectations are communicated through our policies and contractual terms, which make clear that the use of forced, trafficked, or child labour is unacceptable. We expect suppliers to ensure that all workers are employed voluntarily, have the right to leave their employment with reasonable notice, and are paid fairly in accordance with legal requirements.

Supplier Audits and Risk Assessment

To support our zero-tolerance policy, we conduct proportionate risk assessments of our suppliers based on factors such as sector, geography, and the nature of the goods or services provided. Where a higher risk of modern slavery is identified, we may undertake more detailed due diligence or request further documentation to verify working conditions and labour practices.

We reserve the right to carry out audits, either directly or through independent third parties, on selected suppliers. These audits may review employment records, recruitment practices, working hours, wages, and health and safety arrangements. If a supplier is found to be in breach of our standards on modern slavery, we will require corrective actions within a defined timeframe, and we may suspend or cease business where issues are not resolved satisfactorily.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

We encourage anyone connected to our business, including employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers, to report any concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns may relate to our own operations or to any part of our supply chain.

Reports can be raised through established internal reporting channels or by speaking directly to a manager or senior representative of Man with Van Islington. Individuals who raise concerns in good faith will not suffer any form of retaliation or adverse treatment. All reports will be treated sensitively and, where possible, confidentially, and we will take appropriate action to investigate and address any issues identified.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

Key staff involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management are made aware of the risks of modern slavery and the indicators of exploitation. We aim to build knowledge and understanding of ethical sourcing and responsible employment practices so that potential warning signs can be identified and acted upon promptly.

We are committed to continuously improving our approach, enhancing our due diligence processes, and strengthening our safeguards as new risks and best practices emerge within our sector and the wider business community.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our response to modern slavery sits with the senior management of Man with Van Islington. They ensure that appropriate policies, controls, and reporting channels are in place and that any incidents are managed effectively and transparently.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every year to ensure it remains current, effective, and reflective of our operations and risk profile. As part of this annual review, we assess the outcomes of any audits, investigations, and training activities, and we update our measures where improvements can be made. The updated statement is then approved by senior management and communicated internally and externally as appropriate.

By maintaining a clear zero-tolerance policy, conducting supplier audits, promoting open reporting channels, and reviewing our approach on an annual basis, Man with Van Islington seeks to play an active role in combating modern slavery and upholding the dignity and rights of all workers connected to our business.