Modern Slavery Statement

Bermondsey Man and Van Modern Slavery Statement

Bermondsey Man and Van is committed to conducting all aspects of its business in an ethical and responsible manner. This Modern Slavery Statement outlines the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our own operations and throughout our supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to respect human rights and to take active measures to identify, prevent, and address risks related to modern slavery.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Bermondsey Man and Van provides local and regional removals, transport, and related services. Our activities depend on a range of suppliers and contractors, including vehicle hire and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and packaging suppliers, and occasional labour and logistics partners. We understand that modern slavery risks can arise at any point in these supply chains, and we are committed to working only with suppliers who share our values and comply with applicable laws and ethical standards.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

We operate a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. This policy applies to all employees, agency staff, contractors, and suppliers who work with or on behalf of Bermondsey Man and Van. Any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery is treated with the utmost seriousness and will result in decisive action, which may include terminating contracts or working relationships and, where appropriate, reporting concerns to relevant authorities.

Our zero-tolerance position is embedded in our expectations of staff conduct, supplier behaviour, and business decision-making. We will not knowingly enter into or continue relationships with any party that is involved in or fails to address modern slavery concerns.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers, contractors, and business partners to uphold the same high standards that we set for ourselves. As part of our due diligence process, we assess new suppliers on their compliance with labour, human rights, and modern slavery laws. Where proportionate to the risk posed by a supplier or sector, we may ask for evidence of their policies, procedures, and training relating to modern slavery.

We reserve the right to conduct audits or request independent audits of suppliers and partners where we identify heightened risk. These audits may review employment practices, worker documentation, recruitment processes, and grievance mechanisms. If an audit reveals non-compliance or concerns about modern slavery, we will work with the supplier to develop a corrective action plan within clear timeframes. Failure to remedy identified issues may lead to suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Bermondsey Man and Van encourages all employees, contractors, and suppliers to raise concerns about modern slavery or unethical conduct as soon as they arise. Concerns may relate to our own operations or to any part of our supply chain. We are committed to providing safe and accessible reporting channels that allow individuals to raise issues in good faith without fear of retaliation.

Reports can be made to line managers, senior management, or through any established internal reporting mechanisms. All concerns will be treated confidentially so far as is reasonably possible and will be investigated promptly and fairly. Where appropriate, we may involve external experts or relevant authorities. We will take appropriate action based on the outcome of investigations, which may include corrective measures, disciplinary steps, or terminating relationships with offending parties.

Training and Awareness

We recognise that effective prevention of modern slavery depends on awareness and vigilance. Bermondsey Man and Van aims to provide relevant staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management, with information and guidance on identifying signs of modern slavery and human trafficking. We encourage our people to remain alert to risks and to make use of reporting channels whenever they have a concern.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the companys leadership, who ensure that this statement and associated practices remain appropriate and effective. We monitor our operations and supply chains for emerging risks and consider improvements to our controls, due diligence, and training.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every year to reflect changes in our business, legislation, guidance, and best practice. As part of this annual review, we evaluate the effectiveness of our zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, and reporting channels, and update our procedures where necessary. We are committed to continuous improvement and to working collaboratively with employees, suppliers, and partners to eliminate modern slavery from our operations and supply chains.

This statement has been approved by the management of Bermondsey Man and Van and represents our ongoing commitment to upholding human rights and promoting ethical conduct in everything we do.