Modern Slavery Statement

Man with Van Sydenham Modern Slavery Statement

Man with Van Sydenham is committed to conducting its business in a responsible and ethical manner. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out our approach to identifying, preventing, and addressing risks of modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all staff, contractors, and suppliers who work with or on behalf of Man with Van Sydenham.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

We have a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, human trafficking, child labour, and any form of exploitation or coercion. We do not accept, condone, or knowingly engage with any party involved in such practices. All business decisions must align with this policy, and commercial considerations will never override our ethical responsibilities.

Every individual working for or representing Man with Van Sydenham is expected to act with integrity and to uphold the dignity and rights of all people. Any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery is treated as a serious breach of our standards and may result in termination of contracts and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.

Our Operations and Supply Chain

Man with Van Sydenham provides removals and related transport services. While we operate primarily within a local and regional context, we recognise that risks of modern slavery can exist at any stage of a supply chain, including the sourcing of vehicles, fuel, equipment, packaging materials, and labour services such as cleaning or maintenance.

We are committed to working only with suppliers and partners who share our values and demonstrate a clear commitment to lawful and ethical employment practices. We expect them to comply with all applicable labour, human rights, and health and safety laws, and to maintain transparent and verifiable records supporting that compliance.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

To reduce the risk of modern slavery within our supply chain, we conduct proportionate due diligence on existing and prospective suppliers. This may include requesting information on their employment practices, recruiting processes, and use of subcontractors, as well as reviewing their own policies relating to modern slavery and human rights.

We reserve the right to carry out audits or request third-party verification where we consider there to be a higher risk. Such audits may involve site visits, interviews with management and workers, and examination of employment documentation and working conditions. Where non-compliance or areas of concern are identified, we will work with the supplier to agree corrective actions and timelines. If meaningful progress is not achieved, we may suspend or end the business relationship.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities

We promote awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff and key contractors. Relevant personnel are informed about indicators of exploitation, such as withholding of identification documents, restriction of movement, unreasonable recruitment fees, or signs of coercion. Management is responsible for promoting a culture where concerns can be raised and addressed constructively.

Responsibility for implementing this statement lies with the management of Man with Van Sydenham, supported by supervisors and team leaders. They are required to monitor working practices, engage with suppliers on ethical standards, and escalate any concerns in line with our reporting channels.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone connected to our business, including employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers, to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Reports can be made verbally or in writing to a manager or senior member of staff. Concerns raised will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly.

We will not tolerate victimisation, retaliation, or disadvantage against anyone who raises a concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated. Where appropriate, we will cooperate fully with law enforcement and other relevant bodies in investigating and addressing potential cases of modern slavery.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Man with Van Sydenham recognises that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We are committed to continually improving our processes, enhancing supplier engagement, and strengthening our due diligence measures as our business and the regulatory environment evolve.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least once every year, or sooner if there are significant changes to our operations, supply chains, or applicable legislation. The annual review will consider the effectiveness of our actions, any incidents or concerns raised, and feedback from staff and suppliers, with the aim of further reducing the risk of modern slavery and reinforcing our ethical standards.

This statement has been approved by the management of Man with Van Sydenham and reflects our ongoing commitment to respect human rights and prevent modern slavery in all aspects of our business.