Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement for Barnes Man and Van

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Barnes Man and Van to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. As a provider of removal and transportation services, we recognise our responsibility to act ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Barnes Man and Van has a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and all forms of exploitation. We are committed to conducting our business in a way that respects human rights and safeguards the welfare of all individuals who work for us, with us, or are affected by our activities.

Modern slavery is a severe violation of basic human rights and is fundamentally incompatible with our values. We are committed to identifying, assessing, and addressing any risks of modern slavery within our operations and supply chain. Any breach of this policy by employees, contractors, or suppliers may result in investigation, termination of contracts, and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Barnes Man and Van operates within the transport, logistics, and removal services sector. Our workforce includes directly employed staff and, where necessary, vetted agency and subcontracted personnel. Our supply chains include vehicle leasing and maintenance, fuel, equipment, packaging materials, and other goods and services that support our day-to-day operations.

We recognise that certain parts of the logistics and labour supply sectors can be at higher risk of labour exploitation. We therefore strive to partner only with reputable suppliers and contractors that share our commitment to ethical conduct and fair working practices.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers, contractors, and business partners to uphold the same high standards that we apply internally. Our supplier requirements include compliance with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws, and a clear prohibition on forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, as well as child labour and human trafficking.

To support this, Barnes Man and Van is implementing a programme of supplier due diligence and audits. This includes risk-based assessments of suppliers, review of their policies and practices, and, where appropriate, on-site or remote verification. Suppliers may be asked to provide evidence of their compliance, such as workforce policies, right-to-work checks, and procedures for safeguarding workers. Failure to meet our standards may lead to corrective action plans or termination of the business relationship.

Employee Awareness and Reporting Channels

We are committed to fostering a culture where concerns about modern slavery can be raised openly and without fear of retaliation. All staff are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicions of unethical or exploitative behaviour, whether within our own operations or in our supply chain.

Employees can report concerns through internal reporting channels made available by management. Reports can be made confidentially, and all concerns will be taken seriously, investigated thoroughly, and addressed promptly. Where appropriate, we will cooperate with law enforcement and relevant agencies. We strictly prohibit any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith.

Governance, Responsibility, and Training

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery resides with the senior management of Barnes Man and Van. Management is responsible for reviewing risks, approving key policies, and ensuring that appropriate controls are in place.

We aim to raise awareness among staff about the signs of modern slavery and how to respond to concerns. This may include the provision of guidance and training materials, particularly for employees who are involved in recruitment, subcontractor management, or supplier engagement.

Monitoring, Improvement, and Annual Review

Barnes Man and Van recognises that combating modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires continuous improvement. We will monitor the effectiveness of our measures by reviewing reported incidents, supplier performance, and feedback from staff and stakeholders.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, best practice guidance, and the development of our business. Through this process, we aim to strengthen our controls, enhance transparency, and promote ethical practices throughout our operations and supply chain.

This statement has been approved by the management of Barnes Man and Van and represents our current position on the prevention of modern slavery and human trafficking.