Modern Slavery Statement for Removal Van Swiss Cottage

Removal Van Swiss Cottage is committed to conducting business with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the principles and controls we apply to prevent forced labour, human trafficking, servitude, and all forms of exploitation within our operations and supply chain. We recognise that the transport and removals sector can face risks linked to subcontracting, temporary labour, and outsourced services, and we take those risks seriously through a zero-tolerance policy.

Our approach is built on clear expectations, responsible decision-making, and ongoing oversight. We expect every employee, contractor, and supplier associated with Removal Van Swiss Cottage to uphold lawful, ethical, and fair working practices. No person should be subjected to coercion, deception, withheld wages, passport retention, debt bondage, or unsafe working conditions. These standards apply to all activities connected with our service delivery, including loading, transport, storage support, and related operational functions.

We review our business relationships to identify where modern slavery risks may be present. This includes evaluating labour practices, recruitment methods, and subcontracting arrangements. Where necessary, we request evidence of compliance, conduct supplier audits, and require corrective action when deficiencies are identified. Our aim is not only to meet legal obligations but to contribute to a sector in which ethical treatment is embedded in everyday practice.

Supplier management is a key part of this statement. Before engaging new suppliers, we assess their reputation, operating methods, and labour standards. We prioritise partners who can demonstrate lawful recruitment, transparent pay practices, and respect for worker freedom. Existing suppliers may also be subject to periodic supplier audits and document checks, particularly where risk indicators are present or where services involve labour-intensive or multi-layered subcontracting.

When concerns arise, we act promptly. If a supplier cannot demonstrate adequate safeguards, we may require an improvement plan, suspend further engagement, or end the relationship if issues are not resolved. This risk-based approach helps us maintain control over our supply chain and reinforces our commitment to ethical procurement. We also encourage suppliers to extend these expectations to their own subcontractors and labour providers so that standards remain consistent throughout the chain.

Training and awareness are also important elements of our response. Relevant staff are informed about the warning signs of exploitation, including restricted movement, fearfulness, unusual deductions, and lack of access to personal documents. By increasing awareness, we improve our ability to recognise concerns early and take practical steps to prevent harm.

We provide multiple reporting channels so that concerns can be raised safely and without fear of retaliation. Employees and suppliers are encouraged to report suspected modern slavery, unethical recruitment, unsafe labour practices, or any behaviour that may indicate exploitation. Reports are treated seriously, handled sensitively, and escalated for prompt investigation. Where appropriate, concerns may lead to immediate safeguarding action, suspension of activity, or referral to the relevant authorities.

Our zero-tolerance stance means that any confirmed involvement in modern slavery by an employee, contractor, or supplier is unacceptable. This includes direct participation, negligent oversight, or deliberate concealment of abusive practices. We will take decisive action where breaches are found, including disciplinary measures, termination of contracts, and cooperation with investigations. We believe a strong response is essential to protecting vulnerable people and preserving trust in our business.

We also recognise the importance of monitoring changes in risk. The removals sector can be affected by seasonal demand, urgent recruitment, and shifting supplier networks, all of which may increase vulnerability if not properly managed. For that reason, our controls are reviewed as part of normal business planning, with additional scrutiny applied when services are expanded or new partners are introduced.

This statement is supported by internal accountability. Management is responsible for overseeing compliance, reviewing risk indicators, and ensuring that anti-slavery commitments remain active rather than symbolic. We maintain records of supplier assessments, audit findings, and reported concerns so that patterns can be identified and addressed over time. These records help us measure whether our controls are effective and where further improvement is needed.

We are committed to continuous improvement and to making our processes more robust each year. The effectiveness of this statement and the related procedures will be reviewed annually. During the annual review, we will consider supplier performance, audit outcomes, staff awareness, reporting activity, and any emerging legal or industry developments. Findings from that review will inform updates to our policies, training, and oversight methods.

Removal Van Swiss Cottage will continue to strengthen its response to modern slavery through vigilance, responsibility, and ethical leadership. Our commitment is simple: to ensure that our business operates in a manner that respects human dignity, protects workers, and supports fair and lawful practices across every part of our operation.