Man And A Van Bow is committed to operating with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights across every part of our business. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, and child exploitation in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that no business is completely immune to risk, which is why we maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of exploitation.

As a removals and transport service provider, we may rely on a range of third parties, including subcontractors, vehicle suppliers, maintenance providers, and consumables distributors. We expect every partner associated with Man and a Van Bow to uphold the same ethical standards that guide our own conduct. Our commitment is not only to comply with applicable law, but to actively promote fair treatment, safe working conditions, and responsible business practices.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

We adopt a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery in all forms. This means we will not knowingly work with any individual, contractor, or supplier involved in exploitation, coercion, deception, or abuse of vulnerability. If concerns are identified, we will investigate promptly and take decisive action, which may include suspension or termination of a business relationship. This principle applies equally across the wider Man And A Van Bow network and any external arrangements supporting our services.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

Our supplier selection process includes risk-based checks designed to assess ethical standards before engagement. We review the nature of services provided, the location of operations, and the likelihood of labour-related risk. Where appropriate, we request declarations confirming compliance with anti-slavery laws and our own requirements. We also reserve the right to carry out supplier audits, including document reviews and, where necessary, site visits or follow-up assessments.

These audits help us verify that suppliers are meeting their responsibilities regarding wages, hours, working conditions, and the lawful employment of staff. If any supplier fails to meet expectations, we will require corrective action within a defined timeframe. Persistent non-compliance will not be accepted. Man and a Van Bow is committed to ensuring that our procurement decisions support ethical supply chains rather than create opportunities for abuse.

To strengthen oversight, we encourage our suppliers to maintain records that demonstrate lawful recruitment practices, identity verification, and freedom from coercion. We also expect them to flow these standards through to their own subcontractors. In practice, this means the responsibility for preventing exploitation does not stop at the first tier of supply but extends wherever our business relationships have influence.

Reporting Channels and Raising Concerns

We want concerns to be raised early so they can be addressed quickly and safely. Workers, suppliers, and anyone connected with our operations may report suspected modern slavery, unsafe practices, or unethical behaviour through internal management channels. Reports may be made confidentially and will be treated seriously, sensitively, and without prejudice. No one should fear retaliation for speaking up in good faith.

When a concern is reported, we will assess the issue, preserve relevant information, and determine the appropriate next steps. This may involve asking for further detail, escalating the matter to senior decision-makers, or initiating an audit or investigation. Where there is credible evidence of exploitation, we will act immediately to protect affected individuals and to prevent further harm.

Training and awareness also form part of our approach. Team members are encouraged to remain alert to warning signs such as restricted movement, withheld wages, unusual dependency on supervisors, or inconsistent documentation. By maintaining open communication, Man And A Van Bow aims to create a workplace culture where concerns are identified and addressed responsibly.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, current, and aligned with our business activities and legal obligations. During the review, we consider any reported concerns, audit findings, changes in supply chains, and updates to best practice. The review process helps us identify areas for improvement and strengthens our ability to prevent modern slavery from occurring.

Where improvements are needed, we will update our procedures, reinforce supplier expectations, and improve awareness among relevant personnel. We view this as an ongoing responsibility rather than a one-time exercise. The fight against exploitation requires vigilance, accountability, and consistent action across every level of the business.

In summary, Man And A Van Bow remains firmly committed to ethical operations, responsible sourcing, and the prevention of modern slavery in all its forms. Through a zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, accessible reporting channels, and an annual review process, we aim to protect human dignity and uphold the highest standards of integrity.