Modern Slavery Statement for Man With a Van Merton

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Man With a Van Merton in respect of its financial year and outlines the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. As a transport and removals business serving residential and commercial customers, we recognise our responsibility to respect human rights and to work proactively to identify, prevent, and address any risks associated with modern slavery.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Man With a Van Merton has a clear zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, servitude, and child labour. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships. This commitment extends to everyone working in or with our business, including employees, agency staff, contractors, and suppliers involved in vehicle hire, logistics, fuel provision, equipment, and related services.

We expect all individuals and organisations associated with Man With a Van Merton to uphold the same high standards. Any breach or suspected breach of our zero-tolerance policy will be treated seriously and may result in termination of contracts, refusal of future business, and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.

Our Supply Chain and Risk Management

Our supply chain primarily consists of vehicle leasing and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and materials vendors, and subcontracted service providers. We acknowledge that modern slavery risk can exist at multiple levels, particularly where lower-skilled or temporary labour is used. We are working to identify and manage these risks through due diligence, monitoring, and transparent communication with our suppliers.

Before entering into new supply arrangements, we seek confirmation that our suppliers comply with applicable labour laws, respect human rights, and have taken reasonable steps to prevent modern slavery within their own operations and supply chains.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

Man With a Van Merton is strengthening its supplier management processes through proportionate audits and checks. We reserve the right to conduct audits of existing and prospective suppliers to assess their adherence to our anti-slavery expectations. These checks may include requesting information on employment practices, right-to-work verification, use of subcontractors, and policies relating to modern slavery and human trafficking.

Where risks are identified, we will engage with suppliers to encourage improvements, develop corrective action plans, or, if necessary, consider ending the commercial relationship. We aim to prioritise working with suppliers who demonstrate transparency, robust labour standards, and continuous improvement in this area.

Training, Awareness, and Reporting Channels

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery among our management team, staff, and key contractors. Training and guidance will be provided so that individuals understand the signs of exploitation, how to respond to concerns, and the importance of responsible sourcing and employment practices.

Man With a Van Merton encourages any employee, contractor, supplier, or other stakeholder who has concerns about potential modern slavery or unethical practices to report them without fear of retaliation. Concerns can be raised to management or through existing internal reporting routes. All reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. Where appropriate, we will cooperate with law enforcement and relevant agencies.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires continual review and improvement. Man With a Van Merton will review this Modern Slavery Statement and our associated practices annually, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, business operations, or identified risks.

As part of our annual review, we will consider the effectiveness of our supplier checks, any reports received, outcomes of investigations, and the adequacy of our training and awareness activities. We will use these insights to refine our approach, enhance our due diligence procedures, and strengthen our culture of ethical conduct and respect for human rights.

This statement reflects the commitment of Man With a Van Merton to play its part in preventing modern slavery and human trafficking, and to operate in a manner that promotes dignity, fairness, and safety for all people connected to our business and supply chains.