Modern Slavery Statement

Man with Van Barnes Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the policies and actions taken by Man with Van Barnes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Man with Van Barnes operates as a local removals and transport service provider and recognises its responsibility to uphold the highest ethical standards and respect for human rights.

Modern slavery encompasses slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour and human trafficking. Man with Van Barnes is firmly 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 anywhere in our own business or in our supply chains.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

Man with Van Barnes maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not, under any circumstances, tolerate practices that exploit individuals, deny them their fundamental rights, or subject them to coercion or control. This applies to all aspects of our operations, including directly employed staff, casual or agency workers, subcontractors, logistics partners and any other third parties working on our behalf.

All managers and those involved in procurement, supplier management and recruitment are required to uphold this zero-tolerance policy. Any breach, suspected breach or facilitation of modern slavery is treated as a serious misconduct issue and may lead to termination of employment or business relationships, as well as referral to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Supply Chain Due Diligence and Supplier Audits

Although our supply chain is relatively limited, Man with Van Barnes recognises that risks can arise in areas such as vehicle leasing or purchase, fuel providers, equipment and packing materials, cleaning and maintenance services and labour provision or subcontracted drivers. To address these risks, we are committed to undertaking proportionate due diligence on our suppliers and partners.

We assess new and existing suppliers for potential modern slavery risks based on factors such as geographical location, industry sector, use of temporary or migrant labour and previous ethical performance. Where higher risk is identified, we may request additional information on labour practices, worker welfare, recruitment processes and grievance mechanisms.

Man with Van Barnes reserves the right to carry out supplier audits, either remotely or on site where appropriate. These audits may include reviewing relevant documentation, speaking with management about labour practices and, where feasible, engaging directly and confidentially with workers. Any supplier found to be involved in modern slavery or unable to demonstrate adequate controls will be required to implement corrective actions within a defined timeframe or risk termination of the commercial relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Man with Van Barnes encourages all employees, agency staff, subcontractors, suppliers and customers to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business or supply chain. Concerns may relate to working conditions, recruitment fees, retention of identity documents, threats or intimidation, restricted freedom of movement or any other indicators of exploitation.

Reports can be made verbally to a line manager or senior manager or in writing to a designated company representative. Individuals raising concerns are encouraged to provide as much factual detail as possible, but reports will be taken seriously even when information is limited. Man with Van Barnes is committed to protecting anyone who raises a concern in good faith from retaliation, victimisation or disadvantage. Where appropriate, we will investigate reports promptly and sensitively and, if necessary, engage with relevant external authorities or support organisations.

Training and Awareness

To support effective implementation of this statement, Man with Van Barnes aims to build awareness of modern slavery issues among staff and key suppliers. Relevant employees are informed about common signs of exploitation, appropriate reporting routes and the importance of due diligence in day-to-day activities, particularly in procurement, recruitment and subcontractor selection.

Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement

Man with Van Barnes is committed to continuously improving its approach to tackling modern slavery and human trafficking. We keep our policies and procedures under ongoing review to ensure they remain effective and proportionate to the size and nature of our business.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed at least annually by senior management. As part of the annual review, we consider any incidents reported, findings from supplier assessments and audits, evolving legal requirements, sector guidance and best practice developments. Where necessary, we update our controls, enhance training or strengthen contractual expectations with suppliers.

By maintaining a zero-tolerance stance, conducting supplier due diligence and audits, providing accessible reporting channels and carrying out regular reviews, Man with Van Barnes aims to play its part in preventing modern slavery and promoting respect for human rights across our operations and supply chains.