Shepherd's Bush Man and Van Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the approach of Shepherd's Bush Man and Van to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to respect human rights and to act with integrity and transparency in all our business dealings.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Shepherd's Bush Man and Van has a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and exploitation. We are committed to conducting our business in a manner that protects the rights and dignity of all individuals who work for us, with us or are affected by our activities.
No form of abuse, coercion, hidden labour or unfair treatment is accepted in our organisation or among those who provide goods or services to us. Any confirmed breach of this policy may result in termination of contracts, removal from our approved supplier list and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Shepherd's Bush Man and Van provides local and regional man and van services, including household moves, small office relocations and item collections and deliveries. Our workforce includes direct employees and trusted contractors who support our operational activities.
Our supply chain primarily consists of vehicle hire providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and packaging suppliers, storage facilities and occasional subcontracted transport services. Although our business operates at a relatively small scale, we understand that risks of modern slavery can exist at any stage of the supply chain and we are committed to identifying and managing those risks.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers and contractors to uphold the same high standards that we set for ourselves. When we select and review suppliers, we consider their ethical practices and approach to labour standards as a key factor in our decision making.
Suppliers are required to confirm that they comply with applicable labour laws, provide safe working conditions, pay fair wages and do not engage in forced, bonded or involuntary labour. Where appropriate, we seek assurances that they have their own policies and procedures to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking.
We reserve the right to conduct supplier audits or request evidence of compliance where we identify a potential risk. These checks may include reviewing policies, certifications, workforce arrangements and, where feasible, visiting operational sites. If concerns are identified, we will work with the supplier to address them within a reasonable timeframe. Persistent or serious concerns may lead to the suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Speaking Up
Shepherd's Bush Man and Van encourages a culture of openness and accountability. We want all workers, contractors, suppliers and customers to feel confident in raising concerns about possible modern slavery or unethical practices connected to our business or supply chain.
Concerns can be reported to management in person or in writing, and can be raised anonymously if preferred. All reports will be taken seriously and handled sensitively. We will investigate any allegation of modern slavery promptly and impartially and will take appropriate action, which may include engaging with suppliers, amending working practices or involving external authorities where necessary.
We do not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. Protection for those who speak up is a fundamental part of our commitment to preventing modern slavery.
Training, Awareness and Continuous Improvement
We are committed to improving awareness of modern slavery risks within our organisation. Relevant staff are informed about the signs of exploitation, the importance of due diligence and the procedures for reporting concerns. As our business grows, we will continue to review the level and type of training provided to ensure it remains appropriate and effective.
We also seek to learn from industry guidance and good practice, strengthening our processes for supplier selection, contract management and risk assessment wherever possible.
Monitoring and Annual Review
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every year by the management of Shepherd's Bush Man and Van. As part of the review, we assess the effectiveness of our measures, including supplier checks, any incidents reported and the adequacy of our training and communication.
Where we identify areas for improvement, we will update our policies and procedures accordingly. Our aim is to continuously enhance our approach so that we can better prevent, detect and address any potential modern slavery risks linked to our operations and supply chains.
This statement reflects the commitment of Shepherd's Bush Man and Van to act ethically and with integrity in all our relationships and to prevent modern slavery in every part of our business.
