Surrey Man and Van Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Surrey Man and Van in relation to our activities within the removals, transport, and associated logistics services sector. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold human rights, promote fair working conditions, and act ethically in all our business relationships.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Surrey Man and Van operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation. We are committed to ensuring that no part of our business is involved in, or benefits from, such practices. This commitment applies to every area of our operations, including our own staff, agency workers, contractors, and all suppliers involved in providing vehicles, fuel, equipment, storage facilities, and associated services.

We expect all those who work with us or on our behalf to share our stance and uphold the same high standards. Any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery within our business or supply chain will be treated as a serious breach of our values and may result in termination of contracts and reporting to relevant authorities.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Standards

Our supply chains primarily include vehicle leasing and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and packaging providers, and, where relevant, storage and subcontracted transportation services. When engaging suppliers, we seek to work with organisations that can demonstrate compliance with labour, health and safety, and human rights standards.

We aim to embed our zero-tolerance approach into our supplier onboarding processes. Suppliers are expected to confirm that they do not use forced, compulsory, or trafficked labour and that their own supply chains are subject to appropriate ethical standards. Where appropriate, we seek assurances that suppliers have their own policies and procedures to prevent modern slavery.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

Surrey Man and Van conducts risk-based checks on suppliers, focusing on those areas where the risk of modern slavery is more likely due to sector, geography, or type of work involved. Our due diligence may include requesting information about a supplier’s policies, reviewing their published statements, and seeking confirmation that relevant employment, wage, and working time laws are met.

We reserve the right to carry out audits or request evidence of compliance from our higher-risk suppliers. If a supplier fails to meet our standards, we will work with them to improve their practices where appropriate. However, where serious concerns remain, we may suspend or end the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers to report any concerns related to modern slavery, human trafficking, or unethical labour practices connected to Surrey Man and Van. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting channels, including line managers or senior management, without fear of retaliation.

All reported concerns will be taken seriously, treated confidentially as far as possible, and investigated promptly. Where an investigation identifies a risk or incident of modern slavery, appropriate remedial action will be taken, which may include notifying relevant authorities or support organisations.

Training and Awareness

We recognise that raising awareness is key to preventing modern slavery. Surrey Man and Van aims to provide guidance and information to relevant staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, supplier selection, and contract management. This helps employees recognise the signs of exploitation and understand how to report any concerns.

Monitoring and Annual Review

Surrey Man and Van is committed to continuous improvement in identifying and addressing the risks of modern slavery. We will review this Modern Slavery Statement annually to assess the effectiveness of our measures and to reflect any changes in legislation, guidance, or our business operations.

As part of this annual review, we will consider feedback from staff, outcomes of supplier checks, reported concerns, and any incidents or near misses. We will use these insights to strengthen our policies, update procedures, and, where necessary, enhance training or increase the level of supplier scrutiny.

This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the management of Surrey Man and Van and represents our ongoing commitment to conducting business in a way that respects human dignity and safeguards the rights of all individuals involved in our operations and supply chains.