Modern Slavery Statement for Man And A Van Catford
Man And A Van Catford is committed to conducting business with integrity, transparency, and 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 own operations and throughout our supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery can occur in many forms and that vigilance is essential in the moving and transport sector, where subcontracting, labour hire, and goods handling may increase risk.
Our zero-tolerance policy applies to every aspect of our business. We do not tolerate any form of exploitation, coercion, debt bondage, child labour, or unlawful worker treatment. This policy is embedded in our internal procedures, staff expectations, and supplier relationships. Any breach is treated as a serious matter and may result in immediate termination of a contract or disciplinary action.
To support this approach, Man and a Van Catford performs risk-based supplier audits and reviews. We assess the labour practices of selected suppliers, subcontractors, and service partners to confirm that they meet our ethical standards. These audits may include document checks, workforce verification, wage and hour assessments, and confirmation that workers are free to leave employment voluntarily. Where issues are identified, we require corrective action and monitor progress closely.
Our due diligence process begins before any supplier is engaged and continues throughout the relationship. We look for indicators such as unclear employment terms, excessive working hours, withheld identity documents, or reliance on informal labour arrangements. Man And A Van Catford expects all suppliers to comply with applicable labour laws and to maintain accurate records that demonstrate fair and lawful employment practices. We also seek assurance that their own subcontractors uphold the same standards.
We encourage everyone connected to our business to raise concerns without fear of retaliation. Reporting channels are available for employees, contractors, and suppliers to report suspected modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Reports may be made through line management, a designated internal reviewer, or confidential written submission. All concerns are handled discreetly, investigated promptly, and escalated where necessary. Protection from victimisation is central to our reporting framework, and no individual will suffer disadvantage for making a genuine report.
Training and awareness are important parts of our prevention strategy. Relevant staff receive guidance on recognising warning signs, such as restricted movement, inconsistent identity information, inability to speak freely, or evidence of control by another party. By improving awareness, we strengthen our ability to identify risks early and respond appropriately. This commitment is part of the wider culture at Man and A Van Catford, where ethical conduct is expected at every level.
We also recognise that modern slavery risks can evolve over time as operations, markets, and labour models change. For that reason, our controls are reviewed regularly and updated when needed. Where higher-risk activities are identified, additional scrutiny is applied, including more frequent checks, enhanced contract clauses, and closer monitoring of labour providers. This helps ensure that the standards applied by Man and a Van Catford remain effective and proportionate.
Annual review is a key part of our governance process. This statement, along with our associated policies and controls, is reviewed at least once every year to confirm that it remains relevant and effective. The review considers audit findings, reported concerns, supplier performance, legal changes, and emerging risk factors. Actions from the review are documented and incorporated into business planning so that continual improvement is maintained.
If any instance of modern slavery is suspected or confirmed, we will act immediately to protect affected individuals and to support lawful remediation. That may include suspending a supplier relationship, notifying the appropriate authorities, and cooperating fully with any investigation. Our aim is not only to comply with legal obligations, but to contribute to the elimination of exploitation wherever it may occur in our operations or supply chain.
In summary, Man And A Van Catford stands firmly against modern slavery in all its forms. Through a zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, accessible reporting channels, and annual review, we aim to uphold responsible business practices and protect human dignity. We remain committed to strengthening our controls and ensuring that our work is carried out ethically, lawfully, and with respect for every person involved.