Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement for Man With a Van Cowley

Man With a Van Cowley is firmly committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our operations and supply chains. This statement sets out the steps we take to identify, address, and reduce the risk of modern slavery, in line with our values of integrity, respect, and responsibility.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Man With a Van Cowley provides local and regional transport, removals, and delivery services. Our direct workforce consists of drivers, porters, and support staff, and our supply chain includes vehicle suppliers, fuel providers, equipment and packaging suppliers, recruitment partners, and facilities and maintenance services. We recognise that modern slavery risks can arise at any stage of the supply chain, particularly where there is low-skilled, temporary, or subcontracted labour.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, child labour, servitude, and human trafficking. This applies to our own operations and to every supplier, contractor, and business partner we work with. We are committed to working only with organisations that share this stance and demonstrate active measures to protect workers. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in termination of contracts or relationships.

Policies and Governance

Our commitment is supported by internal policies on ethical conduct, recruitment, and health and safety. These policies are communicated to all relevant staff and are integrated into our everyday business decisions. Management is responsible for ensuring that modern slavery risks are considered in procurement, supplier selection, and workforce management, and for promoting a culture where exploitation is not tolerated.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We assess and monitor our suppliers to reduce the risk of modern slavery in our supply chains. For new and existing suppliers, we carry out due diligence that may include assessing their labour practices, reviewing available documentation and certifications, and confirming they have appropriate human rights and anti-slavery measures in place. Where risk is identified or suspected, we may conduct further checks, request additional information, or require corrective actions.

We reserve the right to conduct audits or inspections of suppliers where proportionate and feasible. These audits are designed to check compliance with our modern slavery expectations, including the prohibition of forced labour, the use of voluntary and fairly paid labour, and the absence of recruitment fees charged to workers. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to meet our standards or to implement agreed improvements, we will review and, if necessary, end the business relationship.

Training and Awareness

We recognise that effective prevention of modern slavery requires awareness and vigilance. Relevant staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and operations, are provided with guidance on recognising the signs of exploitation and understanding the company's policies. We seek to build awareness of modern slavery risks and encourage responsible decision-making when selecting suppliers and managing workers.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

Everyone working for or with Man With a Van Cowley is encouraged to speak up if they have concerns about modern slavery or unethical treatment of workers. Concerns can be raised with line managers, senior management, or through internal reporting channels made available to staff. Reports can be made in confidence, and we will not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith.

All reports will be taken seriously and investigated promptly and sensitively. Where appropriate, we will work with relevant authorities and support organisations to respond to potential cases of exploitation and to protect affected individuals.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We are committed to continually improving our approach to tackling modern slavery. Each year, we review this statement and our related policies, procedures, and risk assessments to ensure they remain effective and reflect changes in our operations or supply chains. The review considers any incidents reported, the outcomes of supplier assessments or audits, staff feedback, and developments in best practice and legislation.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement has been approved by the management of Man With a Van Cowley and will be reviewed and updated on an annual basis, or more frequently if required.