Modern Slavery Statement

Man With a Van Barking Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Man With a Van Barking in accordance with our commitment to operate ethically and responsibly within the removals and transport sector. We recognise that modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation are severe human rights abuses that can occur in any industry and any country. We are committed to ensuring that our business activities, and those of our suppliers and partners, are conducted in a manner that respects human dignity and safeguards vulnerable individuals.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Man With a Van Barking provides local and regional transport, removals, and related logistical services. Our operations involve direct employees, casual workers, subcontracted drivers, vehicle hire companies, and providers of equipment, fuel, and other supporting services. While our business is relatively small and operates primarily within the United Kingdom, we recognise that modern slavery risks can arise at many points in the supply chain, particularly where services are subcontracted or goods are sourced through complex networks.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

We operate a clear and robust zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This principle applies to all individuals working for or on behalf of Man With a Van Barking at every level, including employees, agency staff, subcontractors, and suppliers. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation or individual involved in practices that amount to forced labour, servitude, debt bondage, child labour, or exploitation. Where we identify or reasonably suspect such practices, we will take immediate steps to investigate, suspend relationships, and, where appropriate, terminate contracts.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

Our relationships with suppliers and subcontractors are founded on lawful and ethical conduct. When entering into new business relationships, we seek assurances that our partners comply with all relevant labour, employment, and human rights legislation. We expect suppliers to provide safe working conditions, pay fair wages in accordance with local law, and ensure that all work is voluntary.

As part of our due diligence process, we aim to identify and assess potential risk areas in our supply chain, particularly where labour is sourced through agencies or where subcontracting arrangements are common. We require suppliers and subcontractors to confirm that they do not tolerate modern slavery or human trafficking in their own operations or supply chains and that they have appropriate controls and policies in place.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

Man With a Van Barking is committed to progressively strengthening its monitoring of suppliers and subcontractors. We reserve the right to conduct audits and checks where we consider there to be a higher risk of modern slavery. These audits may include reviewing documentation relating to worker recruitment, contracts, working hours, and payment practices, as well as seeking evidence of compliance with relevant laws and ethical standards.

Where concerns are identified, we will engage with the supplier or subcontractor to agree on corrective actions and timeframes. If satisfactory improvements are not made, we will consider suspending or ending the business relationship. Our goal is to promote genuine improvement rather than simply displacing the problem, but our duty to protect workers and uphold our zero-tolerance stance will always take precedence.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage all staff, subcontractors, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions regarding modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to our business or supply chain. Concerns can be raised directly with line managers or senior management within Man With a Van Barking. Reports can be made confidentially and will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively.

No person raising a concern in good faith will suffer any form of retaliation or disadvantage. We are committed to creating a culture where individuals feel safe to speak up, even if they are unsure whether a situation constitutes modern slavery, and we will provide guidance and support throughout the process.

Training and Awareness

We recognise that awareness is essential to preventing and identifying modern slavery. Man With a Van Barking seeks to ensure that relevant personnel, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and subcontractor management, understand the risks of modern slavery and how to respond to potential warning signs. We aim to provide appropriate information and guidance so that staff and partners can recognise indicators such as withholding of documents, excessive working hours, or evidence of coercion.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Our approach to tackling modern slavery is evolving and will continue to develop over time. We are committed to reviewing this Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement at least once every twelve months, or more frequently if there are significant changes in our business operations, legal requirements, or identified risks.

As part of this annual review, we will assess the effectiveness of our policies, due diligence processes, supplier audits, and reporting channels. We will consider feedback from staff, suppliers, and other stakeholders, and we will update our measures where necessary to enhance protection for workers and strengthen our overall response to modern slavery and human trafficking.

This statement represents the commitment of Man With a Van Barking to uphold human rights, act ethically, and take meaningful steps to combat modern slavery in all areas of our business and supply chain.