Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
Maida Vale Man and Van is committed to conducting its business responsibly and ethically. We oppose all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking and are dedicated to ensuring that these abuses have no place in our operations or our supply chains. This statement sets out the steps we are taking to prevent, identify, and address modern slavery risks in connection with our services.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Maida Vale Man and Van provides local and regional transport, removals, and related services. Our direct workforce includes drivers, porters, and operational support staff. Our supply chain primarily consists of vehicle leasing and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment suppliers, cleaning and facilities providers, and certain labour and service contractors. We recognise that modern slavery risks can arise at any level of the supply chain and we are committed to addressing those risks proportionately and effectively.
Zero-Tolerance Approach
We maintain a clear and firm zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and all forms of exploitation. This applies to our own operations and to everyone we work with, including suppliers, subcontractors, and other business partners. Any evidence or reasonable suspicion of involvement in modern slavery will result in decisive action, which may include suspending work, terminating contracts, and, where appropriate, reporting concerns to relevant authorities.
Policies and Responsibilities
Our stance on modern slavery is reflected in our internal policies, which set expectations for lawful, fair, and respectful treatment of all workers. Management is responsible for implementing and reviewing these policies and for promoting a culture where exploitation is not tolerated. All staff are expected to act with integrity, to follow our policies, and to report any concerns about malpractice or unethical behaviour.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect our suppliers and contractors to uphold the same standards that we apply to ourselves. As part of our onboarding and ongoing supplier management, we assess the modern slavery risks connected with each category of goods and services. Where we identify higher risk, we may request information on labour practices, working conditions, and recruitment methods, and we may carry out audits or on-site checks where proportionate and practical.
Suppliers are required to comply with all applicable labour and human rights laws and to ensure that no forced, bonded, or involuntary labour is used in their operations or supply chains. We reserve the right to review, audit, or request evidence of compliance and to end relationships with suppliers who fail to meet our standards or refuse to engage constructively on improvement actions.
Training and Awareness
We are working to increase awareness of modern slavery risks within our business, particularly among staff involved in procurement, supplier management, and frontline operations. Training and guidance focus on recognising warning signs of exploitation, understanding our zero-tolerance policy, and using available reporting channels responsibly and confidentially.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing
We encourage anyone who works for or with Maida Vale Man and Van to raise concerns about potential modern slavery or human trafficking in our operations or supply chains. Concerns can be reported to line managers or senior management. Reports may be made in confidence and will be treated seriously, investigated where appropriate, and handled sensitively.
Retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith is not tolerated. We are committed to protecting those who speak up and to taking prompt and proportionate action where issues are identified.
Monitoring and Annual Review
We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility that requires continuous improvement. We will review this statement and our related practices at least once a year, or earlier if significant changes occur in our operations or risk profile. The annual review will consider the effectiveness of our actions, any incidents or concerns raised, outcomes of supplier assessments or audits, and opportunities to strengthen our controls and training.
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement has been approved by the management of Maida Vale Man and Van and reflects our commitment to uphold human rights, promote ethical conduct, and prevent exploitation in all aspects of our business.