Elephant and Castle Man and Van Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the approach taken by Elephant and Castle Man and Van to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. As a business providing man and van, removals, and related services, we recognise our responsibility to uphold human rights and to act ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships.
We are committed to improving our practices to combat modern slavery and to ensuring that our suppliers and business partners share this commitment. This statement relates to the current financial year and will be reviewed and updated annually.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Elephant and Castle Man and Van operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation, contractor, or individual involved in such practices.
All staff, including permanent employees, temporary workers, subcontractors, and agency personnel, are expected to act in accordance with this policy. Any breach of this policy by employees may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Any breach by suppliers or contractors may result in termination of contracts and reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.
Risk Assessment and Due Diligence
We assess the risk of modern slavery across our operations and supply chains, with particular attention to higher-risk areas such as labour provision, subcontracted transport, cleaning, and the procurement of equipment and materials.
Our due diligence processes include the assessment of new suppliers and the review of existing suppliers. We consider factors such as the nature and location of the work, labour practices, and the supplier's own policies on modern slavery and human rights. Where we identify elevated risk, we take additional steps to obtain assurance that appropriate safeguards are in place.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers, subcontractors, and business partners to uphold the same high standards that we set for ourselves. Our supplier requirements include adherence to applicable labour laws, prohibition of forced or compulsory labour, prohibition of child labour, fair working conditions, and respect for freedom of movement.
To verify compliance, we reserve the right to conduct supplier audits and assessments. These may include site visits, document reviews, and discussions with management and workers. Where non-compliance or concerns are identified, we will work with the supplier to develop corrective action plans within defined timescales. If adequate improvements are not made, we may suspend or terminate the business relationship.
Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities
Responsibility for implementing this statement and related policies rests with senior management, supported by operational managers and supervisors. They are responsible for ensuring that procedures to identify and mitigate modern slavery risks are effectively embedded into day-to-day operations.
We provide appropriate guidance and information to managers and staff so they can recognise signs of modern slavery, understand our reporting processes, and respond correctly to any concerns. Key personnel involved in procurement and supplier management receive additional guidance on risk assessment and supplier due diligence.
Reporting Channels and Protection
We encourage all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions about modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to our business or supply chains.
Concerns can be raised with a line manager or a senior manager within the business, or through internal reporting channels made known to staff. Reports will be treated seriously and investigated promptly and sensitively. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated after investigation.
Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement
We are committed to continually strengthening our approach to preventing modern slavery. This includes monitoring the effectiveness of our policies, risk assessments, supplier audits, and training activities.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every financial year by senior management. As part of the review, we assess any incidents, audit findings, supplier feedback, and changes in legislation or industry guidance. Where necessary, we update our policies and procedures, enhance training, or adjust our supplier requirements to ensure we maintain robust safeguards.
By maintaining a zero-tolerance stance, fostering transparency in our supply chains, and encouraging open reporting, Elephant and Castle Man and Van seeks to play its part in the wider effort to eradicate modern slavery and protect the fundamental rights and dignity of all workers.
