Modern Slavery Statement for Man with Van Strawberry Hill

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions taken by Man with Van Strawberry Hill to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation in our operations and supply chains. As a local transport and removals business, we recognise our responsibility to uphold and promote fair, safe, and lawful working conditions for everyone who contributes to our services.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

Man with Van Strawberry Hill has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships. We will not knowingly work with any individual, contractor, or supplier who is involved in, condones, or turns a blind eye to modern slavery or exploitative labour practices.

All staff, including temporary workers and contractors, are expected to comply with our zero-tolerance stance. Any suspected breach will be investigated promptly, and appropriate action will be taken, which may include terminating contracts or working relationships and, where appropriate, reporting concerns to relevant authorities.

Our Operations and Supply Chain

Our core activities include local and regional removals, transport, and associated support services. While our direct workforce is relatively small and closely managed, we recognise that risks can arise through subcontractors, vehicle and equipment suppliers, fuel providers, and other third parties who support our operations.

We aim to work only with reputable suppliers who share our commitment to ethical conduct and lawful employment practices. We communicate our expectations clearly and require suppliers, where applicable, to confirm that they comply with all relevant labour, employment, and human rights legislation.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

To reduce the risk of modern slavery within our supply chain, Man with Van Strawberry Hill undertakes proportionate due diligence on suppliers and contractors. This may include requesting information on their employment practices, workforce arrangements, and policies relating to modern slavery and human rights.

We reserve the right to carry out audits or reviews of key suppliers, particularly where services are labour intensive or where we consider there may be elevated risk. These audits may involve requesting documentation, clarifying employment terms, and seeking assurance that workers are engaged voluntarily, are free to leave their employment, and are paid fairly in accordance with local laws.

If a supplier is unable or unwilling to demonstrate adequate controls to prevent modern slavery, we will consider ending the relationship and, where necessary, seeking alternative suppliers who align with our values.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone connected with Man with Van Strawberry Hill, including staff, contractors, and members of the public, to report any concerns relating to modern slavery or human trafficking. Concerns may relate to our own operations or any organisation within our supply chain.

Reports can be made verbally or in writing to management. We will treat all concerns seriously and, where possible, confidentially. No one raising a concern in good faith will suffer victimisation or retaliation as a result of speaking up.

When concerns are raised, we will review the information received, investigate where appropriate, and take prompt corrective action if wrongdoing is identified. This may involve contacting relevant authorities or support services if individuals appear to be at immediate risk of harm or exploitation.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to improving awareness of modern slavery risks within our business. Managers and those involved in procurement or supplier management are informed about the indicators of modern slavery, such as signs of coercion, restriction of movement, withholding of documents, or exploitative working conditions.

We aim to ensure that anyone with responsibility for engaging workers or suppliers understands our zero-tolerance policy and their role in identifying and escalating potential issues.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

Man with Van Strawberry Hill will review this Modern Slavery Statement annually to ensure it remains relevant, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. As part of this review, we will consider any issues identified during the year, feedback from staff and stakeholders, and any changes in our operations or supply chains.

Where areas for improvement are identified, we will update our procedures, strengthen supplier checks, enhance training, or take other appropriate steps to reduce the risk of modern slavery. Our ongoing aim is to embed respect for human rights and fair working conditions into every aspect of the services we provide.

This statement reflects our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and promoting ethical conduct throughout Man with Van Strawberry Hill and its supply chains.