Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery Statement for Ilford Man and Van
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Ilford Man and Van has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to act ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implement effective controls to ensure modern slavery does not occur in any part of our business.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
Ilford Man and Van maintains a strict zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and child labour. This applies to our own operations, our workforce, and every part of our supply chain. We expect the same high standards from everyone we work with, including suppliers, subcontractors, and business partners.
All managers and staff are required to support the enforcement of this policy and to challenge any behaviour or practice that could be associated with exploitation or abuse. Any breach of this policy by employees may result in disciplinary action, which can include termination of employment. Any breach by a supplier or contractor may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Ilford Man and Van operates in the transport and removals sector, providing man and van services to domestic and commercial customers. Our supply chain includes, but is not limited to, vehicle providers, fuel suppliers, equipment suppliers, storage facilities, and labour providers. We recognise that some parts of the logistics and labour market may present a higher risk of modern slavery, and we focus our controls particularly on these areas.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We are committed to working only with suppliers who uphold our values and comply with all relevant labour, employment, and human rights laws. As part of our supplier onboarding process, we assess potential suppliers on their ethical standards, including their approach to modern slavery and worker welfare.
Where appropriate, we require suppliers to confirm that they do not use forced, bonded, or involuntary labour and that they have their own measures in place to prevent modern slavery in their operations and supply chains. We reserve the right to conduct audits or request evidence of compliance, such as policies, training records, and due diligence processes.
If an audit or review identifies concerns, we will work with the supplier to resolve issues within a clear timeframe. Where concerns are serious or cannot be satisfactorily resolved, we will consider ending the business relationship.
Reporting Channels and Raising Concerns
We actively encourage all employees, agency workers, contractors, and other business partners to report any concerns related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns may include suspicion of forced labour, exploitation, unsafe or degrading working conditions, or any behaviour inconsistent with this statement.
Reports can be made directly to a line manager or a senior member of the management team. We will treat all reports sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. We do not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated after investigation.
All reports will be investigated promptly, and appropriate action will be taken. This may include notifying relevant authorities, reviewing supplier relationships, or taking internal disciplinary measures.
Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with senior management. Managers are responsible for ensuring that staff within their teams understand this statement and know how to raise concerns. We provide guidance so that employees can recognise the signs of modern slavery and understand the importance of speaking up.
We expect suppliers and contractors to cascade similar expectations through their own staff and supply chains, ensuring that the prevention of modern slavery is embedded at every level.
Monitoring and Annual Review
Ilford Man and Van is committed to continuous improvement in preventing modern slavery. We review this statement and our related practices at least once every year, or sooner if there are significant changes in legislation, our business structure, or our risk profile.
The annual review will consider any incidents reported, audit findings, feedback from employees and suppliers, and developments in best practice. Where necessary, we will update our policies, procedures, and training to strengthen our approach.
This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the management of Ilford Man and Van and represents our ongoing commitment to act ethically, protect vulnerable individuals, and ensure that slavery and human trafficking have no place in our business or supply chains.
