Modern Slavery Statement

Man and Van Balham Modern Slavery Commitment

Man and Van Balham is committed to operating in a responsible and ethical manner. We recognise that modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation remain serious global issues that can affect all sectors and supply chains. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take, and will continue to take, to identify, prevent, and address any risks of modern slavery within our operations and supply network.

We are dedicated to treating all individuals with dignity and respect and to ensuring that our services are delivered in a way that upholds fundamental human rights. This statement applies to all employees, contractors, agency workers, suppliers, and other business partners engaged with Man and Van Balham.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

Man and Van Balham has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not accept any form of forced labour, bonded labour, child labour that is exploitative or unlawful, or any practices that restrict a person's freedom or exploit vulnerability.

All individuals working for or on behalf of Man and Van Balham are expected to act with integrity and comply with our stance on ethical conduct. Any indication that a worker is being coerced, threatened, exploited, or controlled in a way that undermines their freedom or rights will be treated as a serious breach of our standards and will result in immediate investigation and appropriate action.

Ethical Employment and Working Conditions

Within our own operations, we are committed to fair recruitment, transparent terms of employment, and safe working conditions. Workers must be free to leave their employment after reasonable notice, retain control of their personal documents, and receive clear information about pay, hours, and responsibilities.

We do not tolerate harassment, discrimination, or abusive treatment. All workers must be paid in accordance with legal and contractual obligations and must not be subject to unlawful deductions or debt bondage. We seek to create a culture where people feel valued, supported, and able to raise concerns without fear of victimisation.

Supplier Standards and Audits

Our expectations extend to all suppliers and business partners, including those providing vehicles, equipment, storage, logistics, and ancillary services. We expect our suppliers to uphold strong human rights and labour standards and to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not present in their own operations or supply chains.

Suppliers are required to comply with all applicable labour and human rights laws and to maintain transparent employment practices. Where appropriate, we may conduct supplier audits or request evidence of compliance, such as policies, training records, or risk assessments. If we identify non-compliance or credible concerns, we will work with the supplier to address these issues within an agreed timeframe or, where necessary, reconsider or terminate the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Man and Van Balham encourages the reporting of any concerns related to modern slavery, human trafficking, or unethical conduct. Concerns may be raised by employees, contractors, suppliers, or members of the public. Reports can be made verbally or in writing via our usual business communication channels.

All concerns will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly where appropriate. We are committed to protecting anyone who raises a concern in good faith from retaliation or detrimental treatment. Information will be kept as confidential as practicable, consistent with the need to investigate and address the issue effectively.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We recognise that awareness and understanding are essential to preventing modern slavery. Where relevant, we provide guidance to our staff and managers on recognising signs of exploitation, understanding risk factors in our sector, and responding appropriately to concerns.

We are committed to reviewing and improving our policies, due diligence processes, and supplier engagement to strengthen our defences against modern slavery. As our business and supply chains evolve, we will continue to refine our approach to reflect best practice and changing legal and ethical expectations.

Annual Review and Governance

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every twelve months to ensure that it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with our operational realities and legal obligations. The review considers any incidents reported, audit findings, changes in our supply chain, and feedback from stakeholders.

Following each review, we will update this statement and, where necessary, adjust our procedures, training, and supplier requirements. Responsibility for overseeing this statement and its implementation rests with the company's leadership, who are accountable for ensuring that modern slavery risks are identified, managed, and reduced.

By maintaining a zero-tolerance stance, strengthening our supplier oversight, and promoting clear reporting channels, Man and Van Balham aims to play a responsible role in combating modern slavery and supporting fair and ethical treatment for all workers connected to our business.