Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps Putney Man and Van has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting our activities ethically, transparently, and in full respect of human rights.
Modern slavery includes slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, child labour, and human trafficking. Putney Man and Van recognises the responsibility we share with our suppliers, contractors, and partners to safeguard the dignity and wellbeing of all people who contribute to our services.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
Putney Man and Van operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking in any form. We do not accept, condone, or ignore any practices that are incompatible with the protection of human rights. This policy applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers involved in our operations.
Our zero-tolerance position means we will take immediate and decisive action where we have reason to believe that modern slavery offences may be occurring. This can include suspending or terminating a business relationship, cooperating with law enforcement, and supporting affected individuals in accessing appropriate assistance from specialist organisations.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Putney Man and Van provides removal, transportation, and related support services. Our supply chains include vehicle providers, fuel and equipment suppliers, uniform and packaging suppliers, facilities services, and labour agencies. We understand that certain parts of these supply chains may present a higher risk of labour exploitation and we focus our controls accordingly.
We are committed to conducting our business in a responsible manner and expect the same high standards from everyone we work with. We strive to build long-term relationships with reputable suppliers who share our commitment to ethical conduct.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers and contractors to comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws and to uphold standards consistent with our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery. When entering new supplier relationships, we assess their policies, track record, and commitment to ethical labour practices.
Putney Man and Van conducts proportionate audits and checks of selected suppliers, focusing on those assessed as higher risk due to sector, geography, or the nature of the services supplied. These audits may include reviewing policies and procedures relating to recruitment, wages, working conditions, and grievance mechanisms, as well as requesting evidence of right to work and age verification processes.
If a supplier fails to meet our expectations, we will work with them to address identified issues within set timeframes. Where improvements are not made or serious concerns arise, we reserve the right to review, suspend, or end the relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Putney Man and Van encourages a culture where concerns about modern slavery, exploitation, or unethical behaviour can be raised without fear of retaliation. We make it clear to our employees, contractors, and key suppliers that they are encouraged to speak up if they have any suspicion of modern slavery in our operations or supply chain.
Concerns can be reported through internal management channels or via designated reporting routes outlined in our internal policies. All reports are treated seriously and confidentially, and will be investigated promptly and sensitively. We will respect the wishes of those raising concerns as far as is possible while fulfilling our duty to investigate and act.
No individual will suffer any detrimental treatment for raising a genuine concern about modern slavery or human rights abuses, even if that concern is not subsequently confirmed.
Training and Awareness
We are working to increase awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff and key suppliers. Relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management, are provided with guidance to help them identify warning signs and respond appropriately to concerns.
We seek to reinforce the message that identifying and addressing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility shared across the organisation, not a one-off exercise.
Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery sits with the senior management of Putney Man and Van. They review the effectiveness of our controls, audit findings, and any incident reports relating to potential modern slavery or human trafficking.
This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least once every year, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, business operations, or identified risks. As part of the annual review, we will assess the effectiveness of our current measures, consider feedback from stakeholders, and identify opportunities to strengthen our policies, supplier checks, and training.
By continuously reviewing and improving our approach, Putney Man and Van aims to play an active role in the wider effort to eradicate modern slavery and human trafficking, and to ensure that everyone associated with our business is treated with fairness, dignity, and respect.
