Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the actions taken by Removal Van Balham to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery is not taking place anywhere in our business or among our suppliers.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Removal Van Balham provides removal, transportation, and related support services to domestic and commercial customers. Our supply chain includes vehicle leasing and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, packaging and materials providers, facilities management, and various professional and support services. We recognise that risks of modern slavery can arise in logistics, transport, subcontracted labour, and the production of equipment and consumables used in our services.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
Removal Van Balham operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and the exploitation of vulnerable workers. We expect all employees, contractors, and suppliers to uphold the highest standards of human rights and labour practices. Any form of coercion, debt bondage, abuse of vulnerability, or restriction of freedom of movement is wholly unacceptable and will lead to immediate investigation and potential termination of contracts or employment.
Governance and Responsibilities
Overall responsibility for our modern slavery approach rests with the company leadership, who ensure that adequate resources are allocated to implement this statement. Line managers are responsible for communicating our expectations to staff and third parties, and for escalating concerns. All employees share responsibility for identifying and reporting any potential signs of modern slavery that they encounter during their work.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We strive to partner only with suppliers and contractors who share our commitment to ethical conduct and respect for human rights. Prior to engagement, suppliers are subject to due diligence checks that may include assessment of labour practices, ownership structures, and health and safety performance. Where appropriate, we request confirmation of compliance with modern slavery legislation and our own policy requirements.
We conduct periodic audits and reviews of key suppliers, focusing on sectors and geographic areas considered to be at higher risk. These audits may involve requests for documentation, site visits, and review of subcontracting arrangements. If any non-compliance or risk indicators are identified, we require corrective action within agreed timeframes and reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship where issues are not adequately addressed.
Training and Awareness
We provide guidance and awareness-raising for employees, particularly those involved in procurement, site operations, and supplier management. This includes information on recognising signs of modern slavery, understanding reporting channels, and appreciating the importance of ethical sourcing. We aim to build a culture where staff feel confident to speak up and are aware of the company’s expectations of its partners.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Removal Van Balham encourages anyone with concerns about potential modern slavery risks or incidents to report them at the earliest opportunity. Concerns can be raised internally to a line manager or senior manager, or via designated reporting channels established for ethical and compliance issues. Reports may be made confidentially, and where permissible, anonymously. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith.
All reports are taken seriously and investigated promptly. Where appropriate, we will cooperate with law enforcement and relevant authorities. If an instance of modern slavery is identified in our operations or supply chains, we will act swiftly to protect affected individuals, remedy issues, and prevent recurrence.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility requiring continuous improvement. Each year, we review the effectiveness of our policies, risk assessments, due diligence procedures, supplier audits, and training programmes. This review informs updates to our processes, including enhancements to contract terms, monitoring tools, and staff guidance.
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed and approved annually by the leadership of Removal Van Balham and updated as necessary to reflect changes in our business, regulatory requirements, and best practice standards.
