Modern Slavery Statement

Man With a Van Blackheath Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Man With a Van Blackheath has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking from occurring within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships.

Modern slavery is a crime and a serious violation of fundamental human rights. It can take various forms, including slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour, and human trafficking, all of which involve the deprivation of a person's liberty by another in order to exploit them for personal or commercial gain.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Man With a Van Blackheath maintains a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not accept any form of forced, bonded or involuntary labour, and we expect the same stance from everyone we work with. This includes employees, contractors, agency workers, suppliers and other business partners.

All individuals working with or for Man With a Van Blackheath are required to conduct themselves in a manner that upholds this policy. Any breach, or suspected breach, of this zero-tolerance position is treated seriously and may result in termination of contracts, suspension of cooperation or other appropriate corrective measures.

Our Supply Chain and Supplier Standards

Our services rely on a range of suppliers and subcontractors, including vehicle hire providers, fuel suppliers, equipment providers and other logistics-related services. We recognise that the risk of modern slavery can arise at different levels within these supply chains, particularly where there is low-skilled, temporary or migrant labour.

We require suppliers to operate in accordance with all applicable labour, employment and human rights laws. We expect them to provide safe working conditions, pay fair wages, and ensure that all work is freely chosen. We make clear that any form of coercion, intimidation or exploitation is unacceptable.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

Man With a Van Blackheath conducts proportionate due diligence on key suppliers and business partners. This process may include pre-engagement assessments, requests for evidence of labour standards and human rights policies, and ongoing monitoring where appropriate.

We reserve the right to carry out audits of suppliers to verify compliance with our expectations on modern slavery and ethical conduct. These audits may involve reviewing documentation, assessing working practices and, where relevant, speaking with workers. If significant risks or instances of non-compliance are identified, we will work with the supplier to implement corrective actions or, if necessary, end the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage a culture of openness and accountability. Employees, contractors, suppliers and any other stakeholders are encouraged to raise concerns about suspected modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to Man With a Van Blackheath.

Concerns can be raised with a manager or senior contact within the business. Reports may be made confidentially, and issues raised in good faith will be taken seriously and investigated appropriately. No person will suffer any retaliation or detrimental treatment for reporting a modern slavery concern or for refusing to be involved in exploitation.

Training and Awareness

We aim to ensure that relevant members of our team understand the risks of modern slavery and human trafficking. Where appropriate, we provide guidance on identifying potential warning signs, such as evidence of coercion, restriction of movement, retention of identity documents or indications of debt bondage. This awareness helps our people to recognise, prevent and report potential abuses.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the leadership of Man With a Van Blackheath. The review process considers any changes in our operations, feedback from staff and suppliers, and developments in legislation and best practice.

We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach to tackling modern slavery. Over time, we aim to strengthen our due diligence, enhance supplier engagement, and refine our reporting and training processes to better safeguard the rights and wellbeing of all individuals connected to our business.

This statement reflects the position of Man With a Van Blackheath for the most recent financial year and will be updated as part of our regular annual review.