Modern Slavery Statement
South Kensington Man and Van Modern Slavery Statement
Introduction and Purpose
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps South Kensington Man and Van takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold human rights, protect vulnerable individuals, and promote fair, safe and respectful working conditions in every aspect of our business.
Modern slavery is a crime and a violation of fundamental human rights. It can take many forms, including forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, debt bondage and the exploitation of vulnerable workers. South Kensington Man and Van is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business dealings, and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery does not occur.
Zero-Tolerance Policy
South Kensington Man and Van operates a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, subcontractors and suppliers engaged in providing goods or services to our business.
No form of forced, bonded or involuntary labour is permitted in any part of our operations. All workers must be free to leave their employment after serving any reasonable notice period, must not be required to lodge deposits or identity documents, and must receive fair pay and working conditions that meet or exceed applicable legal standards.
Any individual or organisation found to be involved in modern slavery or human trafficking in connection with our business will face immediate remedial action, which may include termination of employment or contract, reporting to the relevant authorities and the implementation of corrective measures to prevent recurrence.
Suppliers and Due Diligence
Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles, equipment, uniforms, storage facilities and ancillary services that support our removals and transport operations. We expect all suppliers to share our commitment to eliminating modern slavery and to operate in line with applicable labour, health and safety and human rights laws.
We conduct proportionate risk-based due diligence on existing and prospective suppliers. This may include reviewing policies, contractual terms, workforce practices and evidence of compliance with labour standards. Where appropriate, we require suppliers to confirm that they do not tolerate modern slavery, that they monitor their own supply chains, and that they have procedures in place to identify and address any risks.
If concerns are raised regarding a supplier, we reserve the right to require corrective action plans, perform enhanced checks or audits, and suspend or terminate relationships where issues are not adequately addressed.
Audits, Monitoring and Compliance
South Kensington Man and Van is committed to continuous improvement in identifying, assessing and reducing modern slavery risks. We may carry out internal reviews and supplier audits, either directly or via competent third parties, focusing on high-risk areas such as temporary labour, subcontracted services and overseas sourcing.
Our audits and reviews assess employment terms, recruitment practices, working hours, wage payments and grievance mechanisms. Findings are used to strengthen our controls, update our policies and implement targeted training or capacity-building where necessary.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We encourage all employees, workers, suppliers and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or human trafficking connected to South Kensington Man and Van. Concerns may relate to our own operations or to those of our suppliers or subcontractors.
Reports can be made to line managers, senior management or through established internal reporting channels. We are committed to investigating all reports promptly and sensitively, and to taking appropriate action where issues are identified.
We will not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. Confidentiality will be respected as far as is consistent with conducting a thorough investigation and complying with legal obligations.
Training and Awareness
We aim to raise awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, supplier management and frontline operations. Training and guidance are provided so that employees can recognise potential indicators of exploitation, understand reporting routes and appreciate their role in maintaining ethical standards.
Managers are responsible for reinforcing these expectations, ensuring that teams understand the importance of fair treatment and monitoring practices that could give rise to risk.
Annual Review and Continuous Improvement
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually by senior management to ensure it remains effective, relevant and aligned with legal and best practice developments. As part of this review, we consider the effectiveness of our controls, the outcome of any audits or investigations, and feedback from stakeholders.
Where areas for improvement are identified, we update our policies, processes and training accordingly. Our objective is to strengthen our resilience against modern slavery risks year on year and to promote responsible business throughout our supply chain.
This statement reflects the position and commitments of South Kensington Man and Van for the current financial year and will be updated and republished following each annual review.
