Modern Slavery Statement
Man and a Van Acton Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions taken by Man and a Van Acton to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to conduct business ethically and to respect the human rights of all individuals impacted by our activities.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Man and a Van Acton has a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, debt bondage, human trafficking, servitude, and child labour. We are committed to ensuring that modern slavery has no place in our own operations or in any part of our supply chains, from frontline services to indirect procurement and subcontracted activities.
All staff, contractors, and suppliers are expected to act with integrity and to uphold this commitment at all times. Any behaviour or practice that is inconsistent with our zero-tolerance stance is treated as a serious breach of our standards and may result in termination of contracts or other appropriate action.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Man and a Van Acton provides local and regional transport, removals, and related logistics services. Our supply chains include vehicle leasing and maintenance, fuel and equipment providers, uniform and packaging suppliers, temporary labour agencies, and subcontracted drivers or removal teams where operationally necessary.
We acknowledge that some areas of the transport and logistics sector may carry a higher risk of labour exploitation. We therefore work proactively to identify, assess, and mitigate modern slavery risks in our own activities and in the activities of those who supply goods and services to us.
Supplier Standards and Due Diligence
We expect all suppliers and business partners to share our commitment to ethical conduct and to comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. As part of our onboarding and ongoing due diligence, we assess whether suppliers have appropriate policies and controls in place to prevent modern slavery.
Where necessary, we seek written confirmation from suppliers that they do not engage in, or tolerate, modern slavery practices. We reserve the right to request additional information on recruitment practices, wage arrangements, working hours, and the use of labour agencies or subcontractors.
Supplier Audits and Monitoring
Man and a Van Acton operates a risk-based approach to supplier audits. Suppliers considered to be higher risk, based on sector, geography, or use of temporary or migrant labour, may be subject to enhanced checks and more frequent review.
Our audits may include site visits where practical, review of employment records and labour practices, and discussions with management about their own supply chains. Where issues are identified, we work with suppliers to implement corrective action plans within defined timeframes. Persistent failure to meet our standards may lead to suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Training and Awareness
We recognise that awareness is vital in identifying and preventing modern slavery. Relevant members of our team receive guidance on recognising warning signs of labour exploitation, such as confiscation of identity documents, unexplained wage deductions, or indications that workers are under coercive control.
Managers responsible for procurement, recruitment, and supplier management are expected to keep informed about modern slavery risks in the logistics and transport sector and to escalate any concerns immediately.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We encourage all employees, contractors, and suppliers to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery in our operations or supply chains. Concerns can be raised confidentially through internal reporting routes, including line managers or senior management, without fear of retaliation.
All reports are treated seriously and investigated promptly and sensitively. Where there is credible evidence of exploitation, we will take appropriate remedial action, which may include involving the relevant authorities and supporting affected individuals in accessing protection and assistance.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Man and a Van Acton is committed to continuous improvement in our approach to tackling modern slavery. We regularly review our processes, risk assessments, and supplier engagement practices to strengthen our controls and improve visibility across our supply chains.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually by our management team to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. Updates may also be made sooner in response to changes in legislation, our business structure, or identified risks.
By publishing this statement, Man and a Van Acton confirms its ongoing commitment to combatting modern slavery and human trafficking and to working collaboratively with employees, suppliers, and stakeholders to safeguard the rights and dignity of all workers.
