Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Man with Van Watford is committed to conducting all aspects of its operations in an ethical and responsible manner. We recognise our duty to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our own business and throughout our supply chains. This statement outlines the steps we are taking to identify, prevent, and address the risks of modern slavery in connection with our services.

Modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights and includes slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking. We are committed to continually improving our practices to ensure that modern slavery has no place in our activities.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Man with Van Watford has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, contractor, or supplier who exploits people through forced labour, deceptive recruitment, or any practice that undermines human dignity and freedom.

All directors, employees, and regular contractors are expected to uphold this policy and ensure that their actions and decisions are aligned with our commitment. Any breach of this policy by an employee may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or engagement.

Our Operations and Supply Chain

Our core operations involve local and regional transport and removal services, including the use of vehicles, fuel, packing materials, and subcontracted labour where appropriate. While our business model is relatively straightforward and low risk compared with some sectors, we recognise that modern slavery can occur in any industry, particularly in relation to agency labour, cleaning services, vehicle maintenance, and goods sourced from extended supply chains.

We are committed to understanding these risks and ensuring they are effectively managed and reduced over time.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. As part of our supplier management process, we seek to work only with reputable partners who can demonstrate compliance with applicable labour and human rights laws.

We will carry out proportionate supplier checks and audits, which may include requesting information on labour practices, reviewing relevant policies, and seeking confirmation that workers are employed voluntarily and on fair terms. Where appropriate, we may request additional documentation or conduct follow-up reviews to ensure that standards are being upheld.

If a supplier is found to be involved in modern slavery, or refuses to engage constructively with our due diligence and remedial requests, we will consider ending the relationship as quickly and responsibly as possible.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

Man with Van Watford encourages anyone connected to our business, including employees, contractors, and suppliers, to raise concerns about potential modern slavery or unethical labour practices. We support a culture of openness and will treat all reports seriously, fairly, and sensitively.

Concerns can be raised directly with management or through existing internal reporting channels. Reports may include suspicions about the treatment of workers, recruitment fees, withholding of documents, or any behaviour that suggests coercion or exploitation. Individuals who raise concerns in good faith will not face retaliation or detrimental treatment for doing so.

When a concern is raised, we will investigate promptly, take appropriate corrective action where necessary, and, where required, cooperate with relevant authorities.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery among our team. Where relevant, we will provide guidance and training to those involved in recruitment, supplier management, and day-to-day operational decisions so they can recognise signs of exploitation and understand how to report concerns.

We aim to embed our zero-tolerance stance into our working culture so that everyone understands their role in helping to prevent modern slavery.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually by the leadership of Man with Van Watford. As part of this review, we will assess the effectiveness of our actions, consider any incidents or concerns raised, and identify opportunities to strengthen our approach.

We will update this statement as needed to reflect changes in our operations, supply chains, or legal requirements, and to ensure that our response to the risk of modern slavery remains robust and effective.

This statement represents the ongoing commitment of Man with Van Watford to act ethically, uphold human rights, and work towards the eradication of modern slavery in all its forms.