Modern Slavery Statement
Man with Van Sydenham Hill Modern Slavery Statement
Man with Van Sydenham Hill is committed to conducting all aspects of its business ethically, responsibly, and with respect for the dignity and rights of every individual. This Modern Slavery Statement explains the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains, in line with our values and applicable legislation.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Man with Van Sydenham Hill provides man and van, removals, and related transport services. Our operations rely on a combination of directly engaged workers, subcontracted drivers, vehicle hire providers, equipment suppliers, fuel providers, and other support services. We recognise that elements of the transport and logistics sector can be vulnerable to labour exploitation, and we take proactive measures to reduce this risk.
Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery
We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, and any form of exploitation. This applies to all persons working for us or on our behalf, in any capacity, including employees, agency workers, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers. We will not knowingly engage with any party that fails to uphold these standards.
Where concerns are identified, we reserve the right to review, suspend, or terminate relationships with individuals or organisations that do not meet our expectations or who breach relevant laws regarding labour and human rights.
Responsible Recruitment and Employment Practices
We strive to ensure that all workers engaged in our operations work voluntarily and on fair terms. All workers must have the legal right to work and must enter into employment or engagement freely, without coercion, threats, or deception. Wages, working hours, and rest breaks are to be in line with applicable laws and standards.
We do not charge recruitment fees, and we do not retain original identity documents. We expect any labour providers or subcontractors to follow the same principles and to be transparent about their recruitment and employment practices.
Supplier Standards and Audits
Our commitment to combating modern slavery extends to our suppliers and subcontractors. We expect our business partners to implement policies and processes that prevent forced labour, human trafficking, and exploitation in their own operations and supply chains.
Where appropriate and proportionate to the risk, we may conduct supplier audits or request evidence of compliance, such as relevant policies, risk assessments, and training records. We may also request details of supply chain due diligence procedures and any corrective actions taken in response to identified risks.
If a supplier is unable or unwilling to demonstrate adequate controls, we will consider this a serious breach of our standards and may seek to end the commercial relationship.
Training and Awareness
We promote awareness of modern slavery risks among our management team and relevant workers, particularly those involved in recruitment, subcontracting, and supplier management. Training and guidance focus on recognising indicators of exploitation, understanding reporting routes, and responding appropriately to potential concerns.
We encourage a culture in which ethical conduct is expected and concerns about labour practices are taken seriously and addressed promptly.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
All workers, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspicions or concerns regarding modern slavery, human trafficking, or unethical labour practices linked to our business or supply chains. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting to management or through any designated reporting processes communicated to workers and partners.
Reports will be treated confidentially wherever possible, and we will not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. We will investigate all credible allegations and, where necessary, take appropriate remedial and disciplinary action, which may include notifying relevant authorities.
Risk Assessment and Continuous Improvement
We periodically review our operations and supply chains to identify areas where the risk of modern slavery may be higher, such as the use of temporary labour, subcontracted driving services, or sourcing from high-risk regions or sectors. Based on these assessments, we aim to strengthen controls, refine our due diligence, and improve our engagement with suppliers.
We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing process. We are committed to continuous improvement in our policies, procedures, and training, and to adapting our approach as our business and the wider regulatory environment evolve.
Annual Review of This Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least annually by the leadership of Man with Van Sydenham Hill to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. The review will consider any incidents, audit findings, changes in our operations or supply chains, and feedback from stakeholders.
Updated versions of this statement will reflect any changes in our approach, new measures introduced, or lessons learned through our ongoing efforts to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains.
