Modern Slavery Statement for Man With Van Beddington

At Man With Van Beddington, we are committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and with full respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent slavery, servitude, forced labour, and human trafficking within our operations and supply chain. Our approach applies to all staff, contractors, and third parties associated with our Beddington-based moving services.

We maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward modern slavery in any form. This means we do not knowingly work with any person or organisation involved in exploitation, coercion, debt bondage, child labour, or any practice that undermines freedom and dignity. Our commitment is embedded in procurement, recruitment, operational planning, and supplier selection, ensuring that our standards remain consistent across the business.

We expect all individuals and suppliers connected to Man With Van Beddington to share our values. Where appropriate, we include contractual expectations that require compliance with anti-slavery laws and ethical employment practices. Modern slavery risks are considered when engaging new partners, particularly where there may be higher vulnerability in labour-intensive or outsourced services.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

Supplier oversight is a key part of our prevention strategy. We conduct proportionate due diligence before entering into new supplier relationships and review relevant documentation where needed. This may include checking ownership structures, labour practices, workforce policies, and evidence of lawful employment arrangements. Our goal is to identify and address risks before they become embedded in our operations.

In addition to initial checks, we carry out supplier audits on a risk-based basis. These audits may involve reviewing records, examining subcontracting arrangements, and confirming that workers are employed voluntarily and fairly. If concerns arise, we seek corrective action, request further evidence, and, where necessary, suspend or end the relationship. We view audits not as a formality, but as an active safeguard against exploitation.

Our internal procedures also support monitoring of labour-related risks. Managers are encouraged to remain alert to warning signs such as unusual wage deductions, restricted movement, document retention, or inconsistent employment information. By combining due diligence with ongoing review, Man With Van Beddington aims to reduce vulnerability throughout the service chain.

Reporting Channels and Escalation

We recognise that effective reporting is essential to preventing and detecting abuse. Any employee, supplier, or worker who suspects modern slavery, exploitation, or unsafe labour practices is encouraged to raise the matter promptly through internal reporting routes. Concerns are treated seriously, investigated discreetly, and handled with sensitivity to protect individuals who may be at risk.

Our reporting process supports confidentiality and protects against retaliation. Reports may be made by line managers, senior management, or designated safeguarding personnel, depending on the nature of the concern. We also encourage the escalation of concerns involving subcontractors, temporary labour, or recruitment practices that appear unsafe or unethical. Speaking up is a vital part of our culture and a practical defence against abuse.

If an allegation is substantiated, we take appropriate action in line with our policies. This may include additional checks, corrective measures, enhanced monitoring, staff training, or termination of a supplier arrangement. We aim to respond swiftly and fairly, ensuring that our response protects potential victims and reinforces our commitment to lawful and ethical conduct.

Training, Accountability, and Annual Review

Responsibility for anti-slavery compliance sits with management, who oversee implementation and ensure that policies remain effective. Staff involved in procurement, supplier management, or operational planning receive guidance to help them recognise risk indicators and understand their role in prevention. This helps build a shared culture of vigilance across Man With Van Beddington.

Training and awareness are reinforced through internal communication and periodic policy reminders. We seek to ensure that those making business decisions understand the importance of ethical sourcing, fair treatment, and lawful employment. Where our business grows or our supply chain changes, we review whether additional measures are needed to maintain strong protection against modern slavery.

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains current, relevant, and effective. During the review, we assess risks, evaluate supplier performance, consider any reported concerns, and update our controls where necessary. Our yearly review supports continuous improvement and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery in all aspects of our work. Man With Van Beddington will continue to act with integrity, accountability, and respect for human rights.