Modern Slavery Statement
Westminster Man and Van Commitment to Combating Modern Slavery
Westminster Man and Van is firmly committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business dealings and relationships. We recognise that modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation are serious crimes and gross violations of human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take, and will continue to take, to prevent modern slavery within our own operations and throughout our supply chains.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to our own business activities, to all individuals working for or on behalf of Westminster Man and Van, and to all suppliers, subcontractors, and business partners. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation or individual involved in modern slavery practices, and we reserve the right to terminate relationships with any party found to be in breach of our standards.
Our leadership is responsible for ensuring that modern slavery risks are taken seriously at every level of the organisation. Managers are expected to promote a culture where ethical conduct is the norm, not an option, and where any concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation.
Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits
As a provider of removals, transport, and associated services, our supply chain includes vehicle and equipment providers, fuel suppliers, facility and storage providers, and various professional and service partners. We are committed to working only with suppliers that uphold the same high standards of respect for human rights as we do.
We communicate our expectations clearly to current and prospective suppliers. We expect them to comply with all relevant legislation relating to modern slavery, labour rights, and health and safety, and to be able to demonstrate that they have systems in place to prevent exploitation in their own operations and supply chains.
We carry out proportionate supplier checks and audits, focusing particularly on higher risk areas such as subcontracted labour, logistics support, and cleaning or ancillary services. These audits may include requests for policy documents, confirmation of right to work checks, details of recruitment practices, and evidence of worker protections. Where concerns are identified, we will work collaboratively with suppliers to address them, but we will not hesitate to end relationships where serious issues are not promptly remedied.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels
We encourage all employees, workers, contractors, and business partners to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery at the earliest possible stage. It is vital that everyone connected with Westminster Man and Van understands that speaking up is both welcome and expected.
Concerns can be raised internally through management channels or via our established whistleblowing procedures. Reports may include worries about working conditions, recruitment practices, withheld wages, unreasonable deductions, restrictions on movement, or any other signs that an individual may be under coercion or control.
All reports will be treated seriously and handled sensitively. We will investigate concerns promptly and thoroughly, and we will take appropriate action, which may include notifying relevant authorities. We are committed to protecting anyone who raises a concern in good faith from victimisation or detrimental treatment.
Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement
We are committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery risks throughout our workforce. Relevant team members, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and contract management, receive training and guidance on identifying indicators of exploitation and on how to respond appropriately to concerns.
We aim to continuously improve our approach by reviewing emerging good practice within our sector and by refining our processes in light of experience. This includes strengthening due diligence procedures, improving supplier engagement, and enhancing internal reporting mechanisms.
Annual Review and Governance
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every year by the senior management of Westminster Man and Van. As part of this review, we assess the effectiveness of our existing measures, consider any incidents or concerns raised, evaluate changes in our business or supply chains, and identify opportunities for improvement.
Where necessary, we update our policies, training, supplier standards, and audit processes to ensure that they remain robust and proportionate to the risks we face. The updated statement is approved at a senior level and communicated within the business so that all personnel understand the organisation's ongoing commitment to combatting modern slavery and human trafficking.
Westminster Man and Van will continue to develop and strengthen its approach to preventing modern slavery, recognising our responsibility to protect the rights and dignity of all individuals connected with our operations and services.
