Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery Statement for Man and a Van Queen's Park
This Modern Slavery Statement is made on behalf of Man and a Van Queen's Park and sets out our approach to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships, and to implementing effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery is not taking place anywhere in our business or among our suppliers.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Man and a Van Queen's Park provides local and regional transport, removals, and related services. Our activities rely on a network of suppliers and partners, including vehicle hire and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment suppliers, and occasional subcontracted labour for specific projects. We recognise that every stage of this chain carries a potential risk of labour exploitation if not properly managed and monitored.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour, and human trafficking. This applies to our employees, contractors, agency workers, and all organisations that supply goods or services to us. Any form of coercion, debt bondage, withholding of identity documents, or exploitation of vulnerable individuals is categorically prohibited and will result in immediate action, which may include termination of contracts and reporting to the relevant authorities.
Responsibilities and Governance
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the management of Man and a Van Queen's Park. They are responsible for ensuring that appropriate policies, procedures, and awareness measures are maintained and kept up to date. Line managers are required to promote ethical practices, identify potential risks, and report any concerns. All employees are expected to act in accordance with this statement and to help us safeguard human rights in our day-to-day operations.
Supplier Standards and Due Diligence
We expect all our suppliers and subcontractors to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. As part of our supplier onboarding process, we seek assurances that suppliers comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. Where relevant, we request information about their own modern slavery policies, risk assessments, and training. We reserve the right to decline to work with any supplier unable or unwilling to demonstrate adequate safeguards.
Supplier Audits and Monitoring
To reinforce our expectations, we conduct proportionate supplier audits and reviews. These may include requesting documentation, carrying out site visits where appropriate, and evaluating labour practices, recruitment processes, and working conditions. Higher-risk suppliers are subject to enhanced scrutiny, and we may require corrective action plans where shortcomings are identified. Persisting non-compliance, or evidence of modern slavery, will result in the suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Training and Awareness
We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery among our workforce. Relevant employees receive guidance on how to recognise the signs of exploitation, the standards we expect from suppliers, and the correct steps to take if concerns arise. We reinforce the message that preventing modern slavery is a shared responsibility and that any concerns will be treated seriously and confidentially.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Man and a Van Queen's Park encourages all employees, agency workers, contractors, suppliers, and customers to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery or human trafficking in our operations or supply chain. Concerns can be raised directly with management or through our internal reporting channels. Reports may be made confidentially, and no individual will suffer any detrimental treatment for raising a concern in good faith. We investigate all reports promptly and take appropriate remedial and protective action where necessary.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires continuous improvement. We regularly assess the effectiveness of our controls and seek opportunities to strengthen our policies, training, and supplier engagement. This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed, updated, and approved by management on an annual basis, or more frequently where required by changes in legislation or our business activities.
By publishing this statement, Man and a Van Queen's Park affirms its commitment to upholding human rights, promoting fair working practices, and playing its part in the wider effort to eradicate modern slavery and human trafficking.
