Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
Man with Van Woodside is committed to conducting business in a responsible, transparent, and ethical manner. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, workers, contractors, and suppliers engaged with Man with Van Woodside.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Man with Van Woodside provides local transport, moving, and associated services. Our activities are primarily based within the United Kingdom and involve the coordination of vehicles, drivers, removals operatives, and support staff. Our supply chain includes vehicle leasing and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and packaging suppliers, recruitment and labour agencies, and cleaning, maintenance, and facilities services.
Although we operate in a sector that is not typically considered high risk for modern slavery, we recognise that exploitation can occur in any industry. We therefore remain alert to the risks, particularly where temporary labour, subcontracted services, and international sourcing of goods may be involved.
Zero-Tolerance Approach
Man with Van Woodside has a clear, zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. We will not knowingly work with any individual or organisation that is involved in, or associated with, such practices. All employees, workers, and suppliers are expected to conduct business in a way that respects human rights and upholds lawful, fair, and safe working conditions.
Any breach of this commitment is regarded as a serious matter and may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts, or reporting to the appropriate authorities where required.
Policies and Governance
Our commitment to combating modern slavery is supported by internal policies, including standards on ethical conduct, recruitment, equality, and health and safety. These policies are communicated to staff during induction and are reinforced through normal management channels so that everyone understands their responsibilities.
Managers are required to remain vigilant to potential indicators of exploitation, such as signs of coercion, control by third parties, unusual wage arrangements, or unsafe working and living conditions. Concerns must be escalated promptly in accordance with our reporting procedures.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We expect our suppliers and contractors to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. As part of our supplier onboarding and review processes, we assess the risk of modern slavery and require suppliers to confirm that they comply with all relevant laws and operate to high ethical standards.
Where appropriate, we carry out checks and request documentation relating to employment practices, right-to-work verification, and subcontracting arrangements. We reserve the right to audit suppliers, either directly or through third parties, to verify adherence to our requirements. If a supplier fails to meet our expectations or refuses to address identified concerns, we may suspend or terminate the relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Man with Van Woodside encourages all employees, workers, suppliers, and members of the public to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business or supply chain. Concerns can be raised through established internal reporting lines or directly to senior management.
Reports can be made confidentially, and we will take all allegations seriously. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. All reports will be investigated promptly, and where appropriate, we will cooperate with law enforcement and other relevant agencies.
Training and Awareness
We aim to raise awareness of modern slavery risks across our workforce, with specific focus on staff involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management. Training and guidance are provided so that colleagues can recognise warning signs, understand the reporting channels, and appreciate the importance of due diligence in maintaining ethical supply chains.
Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement
Man with Van Woodside is committed to continually improving our approach to identifying and managing the risk of modern slavery. We review this Modern Slavery Statement and our related procedures at least once every year. The review considers changes in our operations, feedback from staff and suppliers, regulatory developments, and any incidents or concerns raised.
Where opportunities for improvement are identified, we will update our policies, strengthen our due diligence processes, enhance training, or adjust our supplier engagement to ensure our practices remain robust and effective.
This statement has been approved by the leadership of Man with Van Woodside and represents our ongoing commitment to eliminating modern slavery and human trafficking from our business and supply chains.
