Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery Statement for Man and a Van Soho
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Man and a Van Soho in respect of the current financial year. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our relationships and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery does not take place.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Man and a Van Soho provides local and regional transport, removals, and related logistics services. Our business model relies on a combination of directly engaged staff, contracted drivers, vehicle hire companies, fuel providers, equipment suppliers, and support services. While we consider our operations to be relatively low risk, we recognise that elements of the transport and logistics sector can be vulnerable to labour exploitation, especially where subcontracting or outsourced services are involved.
Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery
We operate on a strict zero-tolerance basis toward any form of modern slavery or human trafficking. This stance applies to all parts of our business and to all third parties we work with, including suppliers, subcontractors, agents, and business partners. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation or individual involved in, or turning a blind eye to, forced labour, debt bondage, child labour, or any other practices that abuse human rights.
Our zero-tolerance policy is reflected in our internal codes of conduct, supplier expectations, and the contractual terms we seek to agree with those who provide goods and services to us. Where we identify a credible risk or breach, we will act swiftly to investigate, address the issue, and, where necessary, terminate the relationship.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to share our commitment to ethical working practices and to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. We seek to work with organisations that can demonstrate clear policies on fair pay, working hours, and safe conditions, and that prohibit any form of compulsory or exploitative labour.
To support this, we are developing and implementing a risk-based approach to supplier audits. Higher-risk categories, such as subcontracted drivers, labour agencies, and certain equipment or service providers, may be subject to additional checks, including review of right-to-work processes, wage practices, and working conditions. Where necessary, we will request evidence of policies, training, and due diligence undertaken by our suppliers to prevent modern slavery in their own operations and supply chains.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing
We encourage all employees, contractors, and anyone working within our supply chain to report any concerns or suspicions relating to modern slavery or human trafficking. Concerns may relate to working conditions, recruitment practices, withholding of documents, restriction of movement, or any other indication of exploitation.
Reports can be made to line managers or senior management, and may be raised confidentially. We are committed to ensuring that no person who raises a concern in good faith will suffer retaliation or detrimental treatment as a result. All reports will be treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled with appropriate sensitivity and discretion.
Training, Awareness, and Responsibility
Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery commitments sits with senior management. Key personnel involved in recruitment, supplier selection, and contract management are made aware of the risks of modern slavery, typical warning signs, and the steps to take if a concern arises.
We are working to increase awareness across the business so that our teams understand the importance of ethical practices and the role they play in identifying and preventing exploitation. As our business grows, we aim to expand training and guidance, particularly for those in supervisory, procurement, and supplier-facing roles.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility, requiring regular review and continuous improvement. Each year, we will review this statement, along with our related policies and procedures, to assess their effectiveness and identify further steps we can take.
As part of the annual review, we will consider the results of any supplier checks, feedback from staff and third parties, and any incidents or concerns raised. Where gaps or areas for improvement are identified, we will update our practices, enhance our due diligence processes, and refine our training and communication efforts. This statement reflects the commitment of Man and a Van Soho to uphold human rights and to help eliminate modern slavery in all its forms from our operations and supply chains.
