Man with Van Woodford Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Man with Van Woodford has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking from occurring within our business operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold human rights, promote fair working conditions, and act ethically in all aspects of our services.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Man with Van Woodford has a clear zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, and child labour. We are committed to conducting business in a way that respects the dignity and rights of every individual who contributes to our services, whether directly or through our supply chains. We do not tolerate any practices that exploit individuals or put them at risk of exploitation.
Our leadership team is responsible for promoting an ethical culture in which any potential concerns about modern slavery can be raised and addressed without fear of reprisal. We expect the same standard from all contractors, labour agencies, suppliers, and other partners who work with or on behalf of Man with Van Woodford.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Man with Van Woodford provides local and regional transport and moving services. Our supply chains include vehicle hire and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and packaging suppliers, subcontracted drivers and porters, and businesses providing cleaning, maintenance, and administrative support. We understand that risks may exist at different points in these supply chains and we are committed to identifying and reducing those risks.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We require all suppliers and service providers to operate in full compliance with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. As part of our supplier onboarding and ongoing management processes, we assess the ethical standards and working practices of our suppliers. Where appropriate, we may request written confirmations of compliance with modern slavery legislation and seek further information on their own policies and procedures.
Man with Van Woodford reserves the right to carry out supplier audits, which may include reviewing documents and policies, interviewing key personnel, and, where feasible, visiting premises. These audits are intended to confirm that suppliers uphold our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery. If a supplier fails to meet our expectations or refuses to cooperate, we may suspend, review, or terminate the business relationship.
Training and Awareness
We provide guidance to relevant staff, including managers and those involved in procurement and supplier management, so that they understand the indicators of modern slavery and how to respond to concerns. Training and guidance focus on recognising signs of exploitation, understanding high-risk areas, and following internal procedures for reporting concerns. We encourage a culture of vigilance and responsibility across the business.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Man with Van Woodford encourages all employees, contractors, and suppliers to report any concerns or suspicions related to modern slavery or human trafficking at the earliest opportunity. Concerns may relate to our own operations, those of our suppliers, or any third party connected to our services.
Reports can be made to a line manager or senior manager within the business. Individuals are encouraged to raise concerns in good faith and can do so without fear of dismissal, disciplinary action, or other forms of retaliation. All reports will be treated seriously and, where possible, handled confidentially. We will investigate any allegation promptly and take appropriate remedial and corrective action where required.
Risk Assessment, Monitoring, and Continuous Improvement
We undertake ongoing assessment of potential modern slavery risks in our operations and supply chains, taking into account the nature of the services provided, geographical considerations, and the types of workers engaged. Where we identify areas of greater risk, we enhance our due diligence and monitoring, and engage more closely with those suppliers to ensure standards are upheld.
Man with Van Woodford is committed to continuous improvement and will refine our processes and controls as legislation, best practice, and our business evolve. We aim to build long-term relationships with suppliers that share our ethical values and demonstrate a genuine commitment to preventing modern slavery.
Annual Review and Approval
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every twelve months to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with current legal requirements and best practice. The review includes evaluating our risk assessments, the outcomes of any supplier audits, feedback from staff, and any incidents or concerns raised.
The updated statement will be approved by the leadership of Man with Van Woodford and communicated to employees and relevant suppliers. We are committed to transparency and will continue to develop our approach so that we play our full part in eliminating modern slavery and human trafficking from our business and supply chains.
