Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery Statement for Man with Van Bickley
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Man with Van Bickley to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard against any form of exploitation.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Man with Van Bickley provides local and regional transport, removals, and associated services. Our operations rely on a combination of directly engaged workers and third-party suppliers, including vehicle hire and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment suppliers, and occasional agency labour. We recognise that any supply chain, regardless of size, can be exposed to the risk of modern slavery, and we are determined to identify and minimise these risks.
Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery
We have a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and all forms of exploitation. This policy applies to all individuals working for or on behalf of Man with Van Bickley at any level, including employees, contractors, agency workers, volunteers, and business partners. We expect the same high standards from all our suppliers and will not knowingly work with organisations that do not share our commitment.
Any indication that a worker is being coerced, denied their fundamental rights, or otherwise exploited is treated as an urgent matter. Where concerns are substantiated, we will act promptly, which may include terminating relationships with suppliers or partners who fail to take corrective action.
Supplier Standards and Audits
To support our zero-tolerance stance, we are strengthening our supplier management processes. We aim to work only with suppliers who can demonstrate that they operate responsibly and respect human rights. Our approach includes the following measures.
We assess new suppliers based on ethical standards and reserve the right to request information about their labour practices, recruitment methods, and working conditions. We are introducing periodic audits and checks that can include site visits, document reviews, and discussions with workers, proportionate to the level of risk identified in each category of supplier. Where we identify potential risks or areas of improvement, we will engage constructively with suppliers to develop corrective action plans and monitor progress within agreed timescales.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels
Creating a culture in which concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation is essential to preventing modern slavery. All workers, including those employed by our suppliers, are encouraged to raise any suspicions or information relating to modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected with our business or supply chain.
Concerns can be reported to management in person or in writing, or through any established internal reporting route. Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. We will respect confidentiality wherever possible and will not tolerate any form of victimisation against individuals who raise genuine concerns in good faith.
Training and Awareness
We recognise the importance of awareness in identifying and preventing exploitation. Relevant members of our team are being made aware of the signs of modern slavery, such as indications of forced labour, restricted freedom of movement, or control over personal documents. We are committed to improving our training and guidance as our business grows and as best practice evolves.
Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement
This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually by the management of Man with Van Bickley. The annual review will consider changes in legislation, emerging risks within our sector, feedback from workers and suppliers, and the effectiveness of our controls and audits. Where necessary, we will update our policies, introduce additional checks, or enhance training to strengthen our approach.
By publishing this statement, Man with Van Bickley confirms its ongoing commitment to combating modern slavery and human trafficking, promoting fair treatment, and supporting safe and lawful working conditions throughout our operations and supply chain.
