Removal Van Acton Modern Slavery Statement
Removal Van Acton is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and in full respect of human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers engaged by Removal Van Acton.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards any form of modern slavery or human trafficking. This means we do not tolerate forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, child labour that does not comply with applicable law, or any practice that denies individuals their freedom or fair treatment. All working relationships must be based on free choice, fair pay, and safe working conditions.
All managers are responsible for upholding this policy within their teams and functions. We expect everyone working for or on behalf of Removal Van Acton to act with integrity and to report any concerns immediately. Breaches of this policy may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment or contract, and may be reported to relevant authorities where appropriate.
Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits
Our services rely on a network of suppliers and subcontractors, including vehicle hire providers, equipment suppliers, storage facilities, and labour agencies. We recognise that modern slavery risks can arise at any stage of a supply chain, and we take proactive steps to manage and reduce these risks.
We require suppliers to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. As part of our supplier onboarding process, we assess potential partners on their labour practices, health and safety standards, and commitment to ethical conduct. Where we identify higher-risk activities or jurisdictions, we increase our level of scrutiny.
We may conduct supplier audits, which can include reviewing documentation, policies, working conditions, and, where appropriate, speaking with workers. Any supplier found to be involved in modern slavery, or unwilling to implement corrective measures, will face remedial action up to and including termination of the business relationship. We will prioritise working with suppliers who demonstrate transparency and continuous improvement in managing labour risks.
Employee Awareness and Due Diligence
All staff involved in procurement, supplier management, and recruitment receive guidance on identifying potential indicators of modern slavery and on our internal reporting procedures. We conduct appropriate checks on employees and agency workers, including verifying identity and right to work, to reduce the risk of forced or trafficked labour within our own operations.
We expect labour agencies and recruitment partners to follow fair recruitment principles, including no recruitment fees charged to workers, clear written terms of employment, and freedom to leave employment in line with contractual notice periods.
Reporting Channels and Protection
We encourage anyone working for or with Removal Van Acton to raise concerns about possible modern slavery or unethical labour practices as soon as they become aware of them. Concerns may relate to our own operations, a supplier, a subcontractor, or any third party connected to our services.
Reports can be made to line managers, senior management, or designated compliance contacts within the business. Concerns may be raised confidentially. We will investigate all reports promptly, sensitively, and, where necessary, in collaboration with relevant external bodies.
We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith or assists in an investigation. Disciplinary action will be taken against anyone who intimidates or penalises a whistleblower.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We are committed to continually improving our approach to identifying and addressing modern slavery risks. Each year, senior management will review this statement, our risk assessments, and our due diligence processes. This review will consider any incidents reported, audit findings, changes in legislation, industry best practice, and feedback from employees and suppliers.
Where opportunities for improvement are identified, we will update our policies, training materials, and supplier requirements. We may also refine our audit programme and expand our engagement with stakeholders to ensure our approach remains effective and proportionate to the risks in our sector.
This statement has been approved by the leadership of Removal Van Acton and will be updated at least annually to reflect our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our business.
