Modern Slavery Statement for Man And Van Poplar

Man And Van Poplar is committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps our business takes to prevent slavery, servitude, forced labour, and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery can exist in many forms, and we maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward any practice that exploits workers or compromises their freedom and dignity.

Our responsibility extends across all parts of our service, including vehicle operations, packing support, storage arrangements, and the procurement of goods and services. We expect every employee, contractor, and supplier associated with Man And Van Poplar to uphold these standards. To support this commitment, we apply due diligence at the point of onboarding and throughout the business relationship. This includes reviewing labour practices, checking for warning signs, and ensuring that ethical conduct remains central to decision-making.

We acknowledge that the risk of exploitation can appear in different areas of the transport and removals sector, especially where temporary labour, subcontracting, or low-value procurement is involved. For that reason, our approach is proactive rather than reactive. We train relevant staff to identify indicators such as withheld wages, coercion, restricted movement, or unsafe accommodation conditions. When concerns are raised, they are treated seriously and investigated promptly.

Supplier management is a key part of our anti-slavery framework. We require suppliers to confirm that they comply with applicable labour laws and maintain fair working conditions. As part of our supplier audits, we assess documentation, practices, and declared controls to identify any potential risk of modern slavery. Where a supplier operates in a higher-risk category, we may request additional evidence, conduct follow-up checks, or limit engagement until concerns are resolved.

Our audits are designed to be practical and proportionate, focusing on indicators such as recruitment practices, subcontracting transparency, and worker welfare. If a supplier cannot demonstrate satisfactory standards, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship. We also expect suppliers to pass the same expectations to their own subcontractors, ensuring that the principles of this statement are reflected throughout the wider supply chain.

We encourage a culture in which concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation. Any employee, supplier, or third party who suspects a breach of this statement may use our internal reporting channels to share information confidentially. Reports are handled discreetly, reviewed by responsible management, and escalated where appropriate. This process supports timely action and helps us protect vulnerable individuals from harm.

Our reporting channels are intended to be accessible and trusted. Concerns may include suspicious recruitment activity, evidence of debt bondage, intimidation, passport retention, or any other sign that a person is being controlled or exploited. Once a concern is received, we assess the facts, preserve relevant information, and determine whether external advice, remediation, or referral to the appropriate authorities is required. We will not tolerate victimisation of any person who raises a concern in good faith.

To make this policy effective, Man And Van Poplar also provides periodic awareness training for staff involved in procurement, logistics, and supplier oversight. Training covers risk indicators, reporting responsibilities, and the importance of respectful employment practices. Our managers are expected to lead by example and ensure that ethical standards remain visible in everyday operations. We regard prevention as an ongoing responsibility, not a one-time exercise.

We also recognise the importance of maintaining accurate records and reviewing our controls against evolving risks. Changes in trading conditions, labour markets, and sourcing patterns can alter exposure to modern slavery. As a result, our procedures are updated when necessary to reflect new risks and best practice. This helps us preserve the credibility of our commitments and strengthen protections across the organisation.

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with current legal and ethical expectations. The review considers audit outcomes, incident reports, supplier performance, training completion, and any changes in our operations or supply chain structure. Where improvements are identified, we update our controls and refine our approach accordingly. The annual review also confirms whether our zero-tolerance policy continues to be supported by practical measures.

Through these actions, Man And Van Poplar aims to contribute positively to a business environment where exploitation has no place. We expect all parties connected to our work to share this commitment and to act responsibly at every stage of service delivery. Modern slavery prevention is part of our wider dedication to lawful, ethical, and accountable business conduct.

By embedding risk awareness, strengthening supplier audits, offering clear reporting channels, and carrying out an annual review, we continue to improve our safeguards against modern slavery. This statement represents our current position and our ongoing resolve to protect human rights in all areas of the business.