Modern Slavery Statement

Ilford Man and Van Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Ilford Man and Van takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. As a local transport and removals business, we recognise that every organisation has a responsibility to uphold human rights, treat people with dignity, and act with integrity in all business relationships.

This statement covers the current financial year and will be reviewed and updated annually.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Ilford Man and Van operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, human trafficking, and any exploitation of vulnerable individuals. We will not knowingly engage with any supplier, contractor, or business partner that participates in, benefits from, or turns a blind eye to modern slavery practices.

All staff, including permanent, temporary, agency, and contracted workers, are expected to support this commitment and act in accordance with our values of fairness, respect, and transparency.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Ilford Man and Van provides man and van, removals, transport, and related services. Our supply chains include fuel providers, vehicle leasing and maintenance companies, equipment suppliers, cleaning services, and labour providers such as subcontracted drivers and porters.

We recognise that some areas of our supply chain may present a higher risk of labour exploitation, particularly where temporary or migrant labour is involved. We therefore focus our efforts on these higher-risk areas and seek to work only with reputable suppliers who share our standards.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers and contractors to comply with applicable labour laws and human rights standards. Our procurement process includes an assessment of potential modern slavery risks and a clear requirement that suppliers confirm their commitment to ethical labour practices.

Where appropriate, we conduct supplier audits or request evidence such as policies, statements, and documented procedures relating to modern slavery. For higher-risk suppliers, we may carry out more detailed due diligence, including site visits where feasible, to verify working conditions and recruitment practices.

If a supplier is found to be in breach of our standards, we will take proportionate action, which may include corrective action plans, closer monitoring, suspension of work, or termination of the business relationship.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities

Management at Ilford Man and Van is responsible for implementing this statement and ensuring that the risks of modern slavery are identified and addressed. Those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management receive guidance on recognising warning signs of exploitation and on the correct steps to take if concerns arise.

We promote awareness of modern slavery among our workforce, explaining what it is, why it matters, and how individuals can help prevent it in their day-to-day roles. Everyone working for or with Ilford Man and Van is expected to report any suspicion of modern slavery without delay.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage staff, suppliers, and any third party to raise concerns about possible cases of modern slavery or unethical practices connected to our business. Concerns can be raised verbally or in writing to line managers or senior management. Reports can be made confidentially, and we will take all reasonable steps to protect anyone who raises a concern in good faith from victimisation or retaliation.

Every report or suspicion of modern slavery will be taken seriously, logged, and investigated promptly. Where necessary, we will cooperate with law enforcement and relevant authorities to address any identified issues.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Ilford Man and Van is committed to continuously improving our approach to identifying, preventing, and addressing modern slavery risks. We regularly review our policies, processes, and supplier relationships to ensure they remain effective and aligned with best practice.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually by senior management. The review will consider any incidents, audit findings, regulatory changes, and feedback from employees and suppliers. Updates will be implemented as required to strengthen our controls and further reduce the risk of modern slavery in our operations and supply chains.

By publishing this statement, Ilford Man and Van affirms its commitment to ethical conduct and to working proactively to help eradicate modern slavery in all its forms.