Modern Slavery Statement

Richmond upon Thames Man and Van Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made on behalf of Richmond upon Thames Man and Van in respect of the financial year ending 31 December. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains, in line with our ethical responsibilities and applicable legislation.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Richmond upon Thames Man and Van provides local and regional transport, removal, and delivery services. Our operations rely on directly employed staff, casual labour, vehicle hire providers, fuel suppliers, equipment providers, and other service partners. We recognise that elements of the transport and logistics sector, including the use of temporary labour and sub-contracting, can present higher risks of labour exploitation, and we are committed to managing and minimising those risks.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, debt bondage, and child labour. This applies to everyone working for or on behalf of Richmond upon Thames Man and Van, including employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers. We expect the same high standards from all parties we work with and require that they uphold human rights and fair working conditions.

Policies and Governance

Our approach to modern slavery is embedded in our internal policies on ethical conduct, recruitment, health and safety, and supplier management. These policies set clear expectations that all workers must be engaged on a voluntary basis, paid fairly in accordance with applicable laws, and treated with dignity and respect. Management is responsible for promoting awareness of these standards, ensuring they are communicated effectively, and taking action where non-compliance is identified.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We assess the risk of modern slavery within our supply chains and apply proportionate due diligence measures. When engaging new suppliers or renewing existing relationships, we assess their labour practices, their own supply chain oversight, and their commitment to preventing exploitation. Where we identify higher-risk activities, such as the provision of labour, vehicle hire, or out-of-hours services, we may conduct more detailed checks or request evidence of their own modern slavery controls.

We reserve the right to audit suppliers to verify compliance with our standards, which may include site visits, document reviews, and discussions with management and workers. Any supplier found to be involved in, or turning a blind eye to, modern slavery or human trafficking will face corrective action, up to and including termination of the business relationship.

Employment Practices

Richmond upon Thames Man and Van is committed to fair and transparent recruitment. We ensure that all workers have the legal right to work, enter into employment freely, and receive clear information about their pay and working conditions. No deposits, recruitment fees, or unreasonable deductions are taken from wages, and workers are free to leave employment in line with their contractual obligations. We do not tolerate intimidation, threats, or any form of coercion.

Training and Awareness

We provide guidance to managers and key staff on recognising the signs of modern slavery and human trafficking, particularly in higher-risk areas such as labour supply and sub-contracting. Our aim is to ensure that those responsible for engaging suppliers and workers understand the risks, know how to respond to concerns, and are familiar with the expectations we place on our business partners.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone who works for or with Richmond upon Thames Man and Van to report concerns about potential modern slavery or unethical treatment of workers. Concerns may be raised to a manager or senior member of the business, and we will take all reports seriously. We are committed to handling concerns sensitively, protecting individuals from victimisation where they raise issues in good faith, and investigating promptly and fairly. Where appropriate, we will liaise with relevant authorities and specialist organisations.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We are committed to reviewing and improving our practices each year, informed by changes in legislation, industry guidance, and emerging best practice. This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least annually by our management team to assess the effectiveness of our actions, identify any gaps, and set priorities for the following year.

This statement has been approved by the management of Richmond upon Thames Man and Van, who take overall responsibility for ensuring that our commitments in relation to modern slavery and human trafficking are implemented and maintained throughout our operations and supply chains.