Modern Slavery Statement

Paddington Man and Van Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Paddington Man and Van has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Paddington Man and Van operates in the removals and logistics sector and recognises its responsibility to act ethically and with integrity in all business relationships.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Paddington Man and Van has a clear and strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and child labour. We do not and will not knowingly work with any organisation that engages in or condones such practices. This commitment applies to our own operations, our employees, agency workers, contractors and every tier of our supply chain.

Modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights. We are committed to ensuring that everyone who works for or with Paddington Man and Van does so of their own free will, is treated with dignity and respect, and is provided with safe working conditions and lawful, fair remuneration.

Governance and Responsibilities

The senior management team at Paddington Man and Van is responsible for overseeing our approach to modern slavery and ensuring that effective systems and controls are in place. Management is accountable for implementing this Statement across the business, promoting awareness among staff and monitoring compliance with our policies.

All managers are required to remain alert to potential risks in their area of responsibility and to escalate any concerns about suspected modern slavery. Every employee shares responsibility for maintaining an ethical culture and is expected to comply with our policies and report any issue that may indicate a risk of exploitation.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

We understand that the greatest risk of modern slavery often lies within supply chains. Paddington Man and Van expects all suppliers, subcontractors and business partners to uphold the same high standards that we apply to ourselves. We assess prospective suppliers based on their ethical conduct and approach to labour practices as part of our onboarding process.

We aim to work only with suppliers that can demonstrate compliance with applicable labour laws and a clear commitment to preventing modern slavery. Where appropriate, we require acknowledgements of our expectations and seek evidence of their own policies, training and due diligence procedures relating to human rights.

Audits and Monitoring of Suppliers

Paddington Man and Van conducts proportionate supplier audits and monitoring activities to identify and address potential modern slavery risks. These may include requesting documentation on employment practices, reviewing working conditions on site visits and examining recruitment arrangements, wage records and working hours.

If risks or concerns are identified during supplier audits, we will engage with the supplier to develop corrective action plans. Where a supplier fails to meet our standards or refuses to implement necessary improvements, we reserve the right to review, suspend or terminate the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

We encourage a culture of openness where concerns about modern slavery can be raised without fear of reprisals. All employees, workers, contractors and suppliers are expected to speak up if they suspect that modern slavery, forced labour or human trafficking may be occurring in our business or supply chains.

Concerns can be raised confidentially with a line manager or a senior manager. Reports will be taken seriously, handled sensitively and investigated promptly. Retaliation against any individual who raises a concern in good faith is strictly prohibited. Where appropriate, we will cooperate with law enforcement and other relevant authorities.

Training and Awareness

Paddington Man and Van is committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among staff. Relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment and supplier management, receive guidance on identifying signs of exploitation and following appropriate reporting procedures.

We will continue to develop our training resources so that our people understand their responsibilities, can recognise risk indicators in day-to-day operations and feel confident in challenging unethical practices.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Our approach to tackling modern slavery is subject to continuous improvement. We monitor changes in legislation, industry guidance and best practice so that our policies and procedures remain effective and up to date. Lessons learned from audits, investigations and staff feedback are used to refine our controls.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually by senior management to assess its effectiveness and to identify any enhancements required in light of our evolving operations and risk profile. Updated versions of this Statement are approved at senior level and communicated internally and externally as appropriate.

Paddington Man and Van remains fully committed to playing its part in the eradication of modern slavery and human trafficking and to conducting all aspects of its business in a responsible, transparent and ethical manner.