Modern Slavery Statement for Man with Van Blackwall
Man with Van Blackwall is committed to conducting all aspects of its operations ethically, responsibly, and in full compliance with applicable laws on modern slavery and human trafficking. This Modern Slavery Statement outlines the steps we take, and will continue to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our own operations and throughout our supply chains.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Man with Van Blackwall provides man and van, removals, and related transportation services. Our activities are primarily based in the United Kingdom, with a supply chain that includes vehicle hire and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and packaging suppliers, and subcontracted labour and logistics partners. We recognise that certain elements of the logistics and transportation sector can be vulnerable to exploitative labour practices, and we are committed to identifying and mitigating these risks.
Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery
We operate a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, servitude, and human trafficking. This applies to every aspect of our business, including permanent employees, temporary workers, contractors, and agency staff. It also extends to all third parties that provide goods or services to us, or act on our behalf. We expect our suppliers and partners to share our commitment to ethical conduct, legal compliance, and respect for human rights.
Policies and Governance
Our approach to preventing modern slavery is supported by internal policies that address conduct, recruitment, and supplier management. These policies emphasise fair treatment, voluntary employment, and compliance with labour legislation. Senior management is responsible for overseeing the implementation of this Statement, monitoring its effectiveness, and ensuring appropriate resources are allocated to support our commitments.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We conduct due diligence on existing and prospective suppliers, with a focus on those operating in higher-risk sectors or regions. As part of this process, we seek assurance that suppliers maintain robust labour standards and do not tolerate forced or coerced labour. Where appropriate, we require confirmation of compliance with modern slavery legislation and our own standards.
We reserve the right to carry out supplier audits, which may include reviewing documentation, interviewing relevant personnel, and assessing working conditions. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to demonstrate adequate controls or remediation, we may suspend or terminate the business relationship. Our contracts and purchasing decisions take into account a supplier’s ethical performance and their commitment to preventing modern slavery.
Training and Awareness
We aim to ensure that relevant managers and staff understand the risks of modern slavery and how to identify and respond to potential concerns. Training and guidance are provided on key indicators of exploitation, responsible recruitment practices, and appropriate escalation procedures. By building awareness, we help ensure that potential issues are recognised early and addressed swiftly.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We encourage employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns they may have about modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to our operations or supply chain. Concerns can be raised with line managers or senior management without fear of retaliation or disadvantage. We are committed to investigating all genuine reports promptly, sensitively, and confidentially where possible.
Where modern slavery or related abuses are identified or reasonably suspected, we will take appropriate action. This may include engaging with the affected supplier or worker, notifying relevant authorities, and, where necessary, ending the relationship with any party found to be involved in exploitative practices.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that the risks associated with modern slavery can change over time. We are committed to reviewing this Statement and our related procedures at least once a year, and more frequently if required by changes in legislation, business operations, or risk assessments. As part of this annual review, we evaluate the effectiveness of our due diligence, supplier management, training, and reporting mechanisms, and we identify opportunities for improvement.
This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the management of Man with Van Blackwall and reflects our ongoing commitment to upholding human rights, promoting fair working conditions, and preventing all forms of modern slavery across our business and supply chains.
