Modern Slavery Statement for Man and a Van Barnet
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Man and a Van Barnet has taken, and continues to take, to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not present in our own operations or in our supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard people from exploitation.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Man and a Van Barnet operates as a local removals and transport service, providing house moves, office relocations, and associated logistics support. Our work relies on a combination of directly engaged workers, vehicles, storage facilities, fuel providers, packaging suppliers, and other service partners. We recognise that risks of modern slavery can exist at multiple points in these supply chains, particularly where there is reliance on temporary labour, subcontracted drivers, warehousing, or overseas manufacture of goods such as packing materials and equipment.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
We maintain a clear, documented zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, and any form of exploitation. This policy applies to all individuals working for or on behalf of Man and a Van Barnet, including employees, casual workers, agency staff, self-employed contractors, and suppliers. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation or individual involved in modern slavery and we reserve the right to terminate relationships where non-compliance is identified.
All managers and those involved in procurement and subcontracting are required to understand and apply this policy in their decision-making. We expect our suppliers and partners to adopt equivalent standards and to ensure that these standards are cascaded throughout their own supply chains.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We carry out proportionate due diligence on our key suppliers and subcontractors, focusing on those operating in higher-risk sectors such as labour provision, storage, and logistics. As part of this process, we seek confirmation of: compliance with relevant employment legislation, prohibition of forced or compulsory labour, fair recruitment and payment practices, and the absence of recruitment fees and retention of identity documents.
We reserve the right to conduct audits of selected suppliers, either announced or unannounced, to verify compliance with our modern slavery standards. These audits may include document reviews, site visits where practical, and discussions with management and workers. Where areas for improvement are identified, we will work with suppliers to implement corrective actions within an agreed timeframe. Failure to address serious concerns can result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Man and a Van Barnet encourages anyone who works for us or with us, or who comes into contact with our operations, to raise concerns about possible modern slavery or exploitation. Concerns may relate to our own activities or to those of any supplier, subcontractor, or partner organisation.
Concerns can be raised confidentially through our internal reporting routes, including direct reporting to line managers or senior management. We are committed to ensuring that anyone who raises a concern in good faith will not suffer any form of retaliation, disadvantage, or dismissal as a result. All allegations will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and, where appropriate, reported to the relevant authorities.
Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities
We provide guidance and awareness-raising for managers and key staff involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management so they can recognise signs of modern slavery and respond appropriately. Responsibilities for implementing this statement sit with the management team, who ensure that contractual arrangements and working practices reflect our zero-tolerance approach.
Monitoring, Annual Review, and Continuous Improvement
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the management of Man and a Van Barnet. Each year we consider emerging risks, feedback from staff and stakeholders, any incidents or allegations raised, and changes in legislation or best practice. Where necessary, we will strengthen our procedures, increase due diligence, enhance supplier audits, or provide additional training in response to the findings of this review.
By maintaining a zero-tolerance stance, conducting targeted supplier audits, promoting clear reporting channels, and committing to an annual review, Man and a Van Barnet aims to continually improve our approach to preventing modern slavery and to protect the rights and dignity of all people connected to our business.
