Modern Slavery Statement for Removal Van Swiss Cottage
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Removal Van Swiss Cottage to prevent modern slavery, servitude, human trafficking, and forced or compulsory labour within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting business in an ethical, responsible, and transparent manner, and to continually improving our practices to identify and address any risks related to modern slavery.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Removal Van Swiss Cottage maintains a strict zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery. This commitment applies to every aspect of our business activities, including our own operations, the procurement of goods and services, and all business relationships we enter into. We expect the same high standards from all our suppliers, contractors, and business partners and we consider compliance with this stance to be a fundamental condition of doing business with us.
Any indication that a supplier, contractor, or other partner is involved in practices that may constitute modern slavery will be treated as a serious breach of our values and may result in suspension or termination of the relationship, subject to appropriate investigation and due process.
Our Operations and Supply Chains
Our core business is the provision of professional removal and related services. Our supply chains primarily include vehicle hire and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, packaging and materials providers, facilities services, and various professional and support services. Although we operate in a sector generally considered to present a lower risk of modern slavery than some others, we recognise that risks can occur at multiple levels of a supply chain, particularly where labour-intensive or low-cost goods and services are involved.
We seek to work with reputable suppliers that can demonstrate robust employment practices, fair working conditions, and compliance with all applicable labour laws. We are committed to increasing transparency across our supply chains and to engaging with suppliers to promote responsible practices.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
To support our zero-tolerance stance, we incorporate modern slavery considerations into our supplier selection, onboarding, and review processes. Where appropriate and proportionate to the level of risk, we may request information from suppliers about their own policies, workforce conditions, and supply chain management. This may include questions about recruitment practices, the use of labour agencies, working hours, wage arrangements, and grievance mechanisms.
We reserve the right to conduct supplier audits, either directly or through independent assessors, to verify compliance with our expectations. These audits may include site visits, document reviews, and confidential discussions with workers. Any significant non-compliance identified through these assessments will require the supplier to implement a corrective action plan within a defined time frame. Serious or repeated failures may lead to the termination of our business relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Removal Van Swiss Cottage encourages all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers to report any concerns they may have related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns may include suspected exploitation, unsafe or degrading working conditions, withholding of wages or identity documents, or any threats or coercion affecting workers.
Reports can be made through established internal reporting routes or directly to senior management. We are committed to handling all concerns sensitively, respecting confidentiality so far as possible, and protecting individuals who raise concerns in good faith from retaliation or disadvantage. Any report received will be promptly investigated and, where necessary, addressed through appropriate remedial action and escalation.
Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement
We recognise that preventing modern slavery requires ongoing vigilance and awareness. Key personnel involved in procurement and supplier management are made aware of the potential indicators of modern slavery and of our expectations when engaging with suppliers. We seek to update our internal guidance and training as good practice and legal requirements evolve, and we promote a culture in which ethical concerns are taken seriously.
We also aim to collaborate constructively with suppliers to improve standards, providing guidance on our requirements and, where feasible, encouraging them to adopt similar standards with their own suppliers and subcontractors.
Annual Review and Governance
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the leadership of Removal Van Swiss Cottage to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with current legislation and best practice. The annual review considers any incidents reported, findings from supplier audits or assessments, changes in our supply chains, and feedback from stakeholders.
Following each review, we may update our policies, procedures, and due diligence processes to strengthen our approach to identifying and addressing modern slavery risks. This statement has been approved by the management of Removal Van Swiss Cottage, who take overall responsibility for its implementation and for ensuring that the company continues to promote ethical conduct and respect for human rights throughout its operations and relationships.
