Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement for Man and Van Colliers Wood

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Man and Van Colliers Wood to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. We recognise that the transport and logistics sector can be exposed to risks relating to labour exploitation, and we are committed to playing our part in eradicating these abuses.

Our Business and Values

Man and Van Colliers Wood provides local and regional moving and delivery services, including residential removals, small office moves, and item transport. Our activities rely on drivers, porters, and support staff, as well as a network of suppliers who provide vehicles, fuel, equipment, uniforms, and ancillary services. We are guided by principles of fairness, respect, and accountability, which underpin our approach to tackling modern slavery.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

We maintain a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, debt bondage, servitude, and human trafficking. This policy applies to all people working for or on behalf of Man and Van Colliers Wood, regardless of their location, employment status, or the nature of their relationship with our business. Any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery connected to our operations will be treated as a serious breach of our standards and may result in the termination of contracts or working arrangements.

We expect all employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers to act ethically and with integrity. We make clear that the use of child labour inconsistent with applicable laws, the retention of identity documents, or the imposition of recruitment fees on workers is strictly prohibited.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chain includes vehicle leasing companies, fuel providers, equipment suppliers, cleaning and maintenance services, and various professional service providers. We are committed to working only with organisations that share our stance against modern slavery.

We seek to embed anti-slavery expectations in our supplier selection and ongoing management. Where proportionate to the level of risk and size of the relationship, we may conduct supplier audits or request evidence of their own modern slavery policies and due diligence processes. These checks can include questions about recruitment practices, use of temporary labour, payment of wages, working hours, and grievance mechanisms.

If a supplier fails to meet our standards or refuses to cooperate with reasonable audit or due diligence requests, we reserve the right to review, suspend, or end the commercial relationship.

Employee Awareness and Reporting Channels

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery among our team. This includes explaining the signs of potential exploitation, such as workers who appear fearful, under undue control, or unable to freely access their documents or wages. New starters are made aware of our zero-tolerance approach and their responsibility to speak up if they have concerns.

Employees and any individuals working with our business are encouraged to report concerns about suspected modern slavery or unethical working practices through internal reporting channels. Concerns may be raised directly with management or through established escalation routes within the company. We will treat all reports seriously and, where possible, confidentially, and will investigate promptly and fairly.

No one raising a concern in good faith will suffer any form of detrimental treatment, including dismissal, demotion, or any form of retaliation.

Risk Assessment, Due Diligence, and Continuous Improvement

We periodically consider where our operations and supply chains may face a higher risk of modern slavery, for example in lower-wage sectors, subcontracted labour, or high-turnover roles. Where we identify heightened risks, we seek to strengthen our controls, such as closer engagement with suppliers, more detailed information requests, or review of working arrangements.

Our due diligence approach is intended to be practical and proportionate to our size and resources, while demonstrating clear commitment and continuous improvement. We recognise that managing the risk of modern slavery is an ongoing process, and we aim to refine our practices over time.

Monitoring and Annual Review

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed on an annual basis by the management of Man and Van Colliers Wood. As part of that review, we consider any incidents reported, audit findings, changes in our supply chain, and developments in best practice or legal requirements. Where appropriate, we will update our policies, training, and supplier engagement processes to strengthen our approach.

This statement represents our current commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains. It has been approved by the management of Man and Van Colliers Wood and will be updated at least once every 12 months.