Modern Slavery Statement
Hammersmith Man and Van Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Hammersmith Man and Van in respect of the financial year ending 31 December and outlines the steps we take to identify, prevent, and address the risks of modern slavery and human trafficking within our business operations and supply chains.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Hammersmith Man and Van is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and in full compliance with all applicable laws relating to modern slavery and human trafficking. We operate a strict zero-tolerance approach to any form of forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, or child labour. This commitment applies to all areas of our business, including our own workforce and all suppliers and contractors who support our removals, transport, and related services.
Any indication of modern slavery in our operations or supply chains is treated as a serious breach of our standards and may result in the termination of business relationships and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Hammersmith Man and Van provides man and van, removals, and associated transport services. Our supply chain includes vehicle leasing and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and packaging suppliers, subcontracted drivers and porters, and certain administrative and support services. We recognise that some parts of this supply chain may be at higher risk of labour exploitation, particularly where subcontracting or temporary labour is involved.
Risk Assessment and Due Diligence
We assess the risk of modern slavery by reviewing the nature of services provided, the location of suppliers, the use of subcontracted or agency workers, and the historical conduct of suppliers. New suppliers and subcontractors are subject to due diligence checks that may include verification of identity, right-to-work documentation practices, and confirmation that they have policies and procedures in place to prevent modern slavery.
Where higher risk is identified, we seek additional assurances or reserve the right not to proceed with the relationship.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers, subcontractors, and business partners to uphold the same high standards on human rights and labour practices that we apply to our own operations. Our commercial arrangements require suppliers not to engage in any form of modern slavery and to comply with all applicable labour and employment laws.
We may conduct supplier audits or request evidence of compliance, which can include site visits, review of policies, and review of worker documentation and conditions. If a supplier is unwilling to cooperate with our requests or fails to meet our standards, we will take proportionate action, which may include corrective action plans or ending the relationship.
Training and Awareness
Relevant members of our management and staff receive guidance on recognising the signs of modern slavery and human trafficking, especially those involved in recruitment, supplier management, and site operations. We promote awareness of our zero-tolerance approach and the responsibility each person has to report any concerns.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Hammersmith Man and Van encourages all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers to speak up if they suspect any form of modern slavery or unethical labour practice connected to our business. Concerns can be raised directly with line managers, senior management, or through established internal reporting channels.
Reports can be made confidentially, and we will not tolerate any form of victimisation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. All reports will be reviewed promptly and, where necessary, investigated and escalated to relevant authorities.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We are committed to continual improvement in our approach to tackling modern slavery. Each year, we review this statement and our associated policies, risk assessments, and supplier controls to ensure they remain effective and proportionate to the nature and scale of our operations.
This Modern Slavery Statement is approved by the management of Hammersmith Man and Van and will be updated on an annual basis, or sooner where required by changes in legislation or our business activities.
