Man with Van Petersham Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement outlines the approach of Man with Van Petersham to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships, and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery is not taking place in our business or our supply chains.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Man with Van Petersham provides local and regional transport, removals, and associated logistics services. Our supply chains include vehicle leasing and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and packaging providers, cleaning and facility services, and occasional use of subcontracted labour for peak periods. We recognise that some of these sectors can carry a higher risk of labour exploitation and we take this risk seriously.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

We have a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, servitude, debt bondage, and human trafficking. This policy applies to our own operations and to all third parties we engage with, including suppliers, contractors, and subcontractors. We will not knowingly work with any organisation that participates in, permits, or turns a blind eye to modern slavery or human trafficking.

All managers and individuals involved in procurement or supplier management are required to consider the risk of modern slavery when selecting and reviewing suppliers. Where concerns are identified, we will seek clarification and remediation promptly. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to demonstrate that adequate safeguards are in place, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We are committed to understanding and assessing the risk of modern slavery in our supply chains. As part of our due diligence process, we expect suppliers to confirm that they comply with applicable labour laws, provide fair working conditions, and do not engage in any form of forced or compulsory labour.

We may conduct proportionate supplier audits, which can include requesting documentation relating to employment practices, right-to-work checks, wage records, use of labour agencies, and health and safety arrangements. Where appropriate, we may also request written responses to targeted questionnaires on modern slavery risks.

Suppliers identified as higher risk due to geography, type of work, or business sector may be subject to more frequent or detailed review. We will work collaboratively with suppliers to address any shortcomings identified, but we will take firm action where issues are not resolved satisfactorily.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone who becomes aware of, or suspects, modern slavery or human trafficking in connection with our business to report their concerns without delay. Concerns can be raised internally with line managers or senior management. Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated as appropriate.

We are committed to ensuring that no one who raises a concern in good faith suffers any form of retaliation or disadvantage as a result. We also expect our suppliers to have their own mechanisms in place for workers to raise concerns safely and confidentially, and we encourage them to explain these channels clearly to their workforce.

Training and Awareness

We aim to build awareness of modern slavery risks among our workforce, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management. This includes guidance on recognising potential indicators of exploitation, such as withholding of passports, unexplained deductions from wages, or signs that workers are being controlled by third parties.

We will continue to review what additional training and guidance may be appropriate as our business develops and the understanding of sector risks evolves.

Monitoring, Annual Review, and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to regularly assessing the effectiveness of our approach to preventing modern slavery. This Modern Slavery Statement and the measures described within it will be reviewed at least annually by senior management.

The annual review will consider changes to our business model, supply chains, and any incidents or concerns raised during the period. Where necessary, we will update our policies, due diligence processes, supplier requirements, and training to strengthen our prevention and response framework.

This statement has been approved by the management of Man with Van Petersham and represents our ongoing commitment to uphold human rights, protect vulnerable workers, and work towards the eradication of modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our operations and supply chains.