Modern Slavery Statement
Man with Van Upminster Bridge Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Man with Van Upminster Bridge takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold and promote human rights, and we are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all aspects of our business.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
Man with Van Upminster Bridge has a clear and strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and all forms of exploitation. This applies to our own activities and to everyone who works with or for us, including employees, casual workers, contractors, and suppliers.
We will not knowingly engage with any organisation or individual involved in modern slavery or human trafficking. Where we identify concerns or credible risks, we will take immediate action, which may include suspending or terminating relationships, escalating concerns to relevant authorities, and reviewing our internal controls.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Man with Van Upminster Bridge provides local and regional transport and moving services. Our supply chains primarily consist of vehicle and equipment providers, fuel suppliers, and providers of uniforms, consumables, and occasional subcontracted transport services.
Although the overall risk of modern slavery in our direct operations is considered low, we recognise that risks can exist at different levels of the supply chain. We are committed to identifying and addressing those risks through due diligence and ongoing monitoring.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking. As part of our procurement and onboarding processes, we seek assurances that suppliers adhere to applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws.
Our approach to supplier audits and checks includes the following measures. We conduct risk-based assessments of suppliers, focusing on sectors or locations that may present higher risks of exploitation. We request confirmation from suppliers that they do not engage in forced, bonded, or involuntary labour and that they provide safe and fair working conditions. Where proportionate, we may ask suppliers to provide policies or statements that demonstrate their compliance with modern slavery and human rights standards.
We reserve the right to review and, where appropriate, audit suppliers to verify their compliance. If a supplier fails to meet our standards or refuses to cooperate with reasonable checks, we may reconsider our relationship with that supplier.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing
Man with Van Upminster Bridge encourages all employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns related to modern slavery, human trafficking, or unethical labour practices. Concerns may relate to our own operations or to any part of our supply chain.
Reports can be made to management or through existing internal reporting channels, and we are committed to treating all concerns seriously, confidentially, and sensitively. We will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. All reports will be investigated promptly, and appropriate action will be taken where issues are identified.
Training and Awareness
We seek to raise awareness of modern slavery risks among our team, particularly those involved in procurement, supplier management, and day-to-day operations. Training and guidance are designed to help colleagues recognise potential indicators of exploitation, understand how to report concerns, and appreciate their responsibilities under our zero-tolerance approach.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We are committed to continually improving our systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking have no place in our business or supply chains. Each year, senior management will review this Modern Slavery Statement and our related procedures. The annual review will consider changes in our operations, emerging risks, feedback from stakeholders, audit outcomes, and any incidents or concerns raised.
Following each review, we will update our policies and practices where necessary to strengthen our approach. This statement has been approved by the management of Man with Van Upminster Bridge and will be reviewed and updated on an annual basis to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with our values and legal obligations.
