Modern Slavery Statement for Man With a Van Forest Gate

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Man With a Van Forest Gate in respect of our financial year ending 31 December and sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights and we are committed to ensuring that our business activities do not contribute to any form of exploitation.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Man With a Van Forest Gate provides transport, removals and related services to residential and commercial customers. Our supply chain primarily consists of vehicle hire and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and packaging suppliers, subcontracted drivers and labour, and office and technology service providers. While we operate at a local and regional level, we acknowledge that some elements of our supply chain may extend internationally through manufacturers and wholesalers, presenting potential risks that we actively seek to manage.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy to modern slavery and human trafficking in all forms, including forced labour, debt bondage, servitude, child labour, and any exploitation of vulnerable individuals. This commitment applies to all people who work for or with us, whether they are direct employees, subcontractors, agency staff, or those employed throughout our supply chain. We expect all those we work with to share our commitment to ethical working practices and to comply with all relevant laws relating to modern slavery and human rights.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

Before engaging new suppliers or subcontractors, we assess their ability to meet our ethical and legal expectations. We prioritise working with organisations that can demonstrate robust policies on labour standards, fair pay, working hours, and health and safety. Where appropriate, we seek written confirmation that suppliers comply with modern slavery legislation and maintain appropriate controls within their own supply chains.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

We are committed to ongoing monitoring of our existing suppliers and subcontractors. This may include requesting information on labour practices, reviewing relevant policies, and, where proportionate, conducting checks or visits to supplier premises. If we identify concerns or potential breaches, we will investigate and work with the supplier to address issues within clear timeframes. Where a supplier fails to meet our standards or refuses to take corrective action, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the business relationship.

Training and Awareness

We aim to build awareness of modern slavery risks among our management team and staff members whose roles involve procurement, recruitment, or direct supervision of subcontractors. Training and guidance focus on recognising indicators of exploitation, understanding our policies, and knowing how to respond to suspected cases. We promote a culture in which everyone understands that ethical conduct and respect for human rights are core business priorities.

Reporting Channels and Protection

We encourage anyone who has concerns about potential modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business to speak up without fear of reprisal. Concerns can be raised internally with line management or a senior manager, or through any established reporting route made available to staff and contractors. All reports will be taken seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. We will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith, whether they are employees, agency workers, contractors, or other stakeholders.

Remedial Action

Where modern slavery or serious labour abuses are identified within our operations or supply chains, we will take immediate steps to protect affected individuals and to address the root causes. This may include working with the supplier or contractor to implement corrective measures, reporting matters to relevant authorities where required, and, if necessary, ending commercial relationships that cannot be brought into compliance. Our priority is always to prevent further harm and to support actions that help victims access appropriate assistance.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We are committed to continually improving our approach to preventing modern slavery. Each year we will review this Statement and our underlying policies, procedures, and training to ensure they remain effective, proportionate, and aligned with current legal requirements and good practice. As part of this review, we will consider feedback from staff, suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders, as well as any incidents, investigations, or audit findings during the year. Updates to this Statement will be approved by senior management and made available to our stakeholders.

Approval

This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the management of Man With a Van Forest Gate and reflects our ongoing commitment to act ethically and with integrity in all areas of our business.