Statement

Statement of Policy

Modern slavery is a severe infringement on human rights, including slavery, servitude, forced labor, and human trafficking. Our company enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy against modern slavery and is dedicated to conducting all business with transparency, ethics, and integrity. We commit to establishing and maintaining effective systems and controls to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business and throughout our supply chains, in line with the Modern Slavery Act 2015. We hold our suppliers, contractors, and business partners to the same high standards, including specific clauses prohibiting modern slavery in all contracts, ensuring that their suppliers uphold the same values. Recognizing victims of modern slavery can be difficult, as it can appear in various forms. Poor working conditions and lack of safety may sometimes be difficult to distinguish from forced labor or human trafficking. Suppliers may also go to great lengths to conceal the use of slave labor. However, we take responsibility for ensuring through our due diligence that workers are not being exploited, their rights are upheld, and all applicable labor, health, and safety laws are followed, including the freedom of movement and communication. This policy and the related Anti-Slavery and Human Trafficking Policy and Procedure apply to all individuals working for or on behalf of the company, including employees, directors, agency staff, contractors, consultants, volunteers, and business partners.

Accountability for Policy Enforcement

The Board of Directors is responsible for making sure the company adheres to all legal and ethical standards outlined in this policy. They are charged with reviewing its implementation, evaluating its impact, and ensuring that proper systems are in place to tackle any risks related to modern slavery. They also oversee the investigation of any suspected issues involving modern slavery within the organization or its supply network. It is the responsibility of managers to ensure their teams are properly educated on the policy and follow its requirements consistently.

Adherence to Compliance

Every individual in the company is responsible for helping to prevent, detect, and report any instances of modern slavery within our operations or supply chains, both in the UK and internationally. It is crucial that employees avoid any activities that might violate this policy. If you suspect that this policy has been breached, it is essential to notify your manager or use the company’s whistleblowing system to report it. If you are unsure whether a particular situation involves modern slavery, please bring it to the attention of your manager. You may also seek guidance from the Modern Slavery Helpline at 0800 0121 700. We are committed to openness and will support anyone who raises concerns in good faith, even if the concern turns out to be mistaken. The company guarantees that no one will face retaliation or adverse treatment for reporting potential issues related to modern slavery within the company or its supply chains.

Due Diligence Practices

Our suppliers must confirm their compliance with all relevant legislation, including the Modern Slavery Act.

Training and Awareness

We provide regular training to staff on the risks associated with modern slavery in our supply chains and on how to recognize exploitation and modern slavery. This ensures that employees are equipped with the knowledge to report suspected incidents. Our firm zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery is communicated to all suppliers, contractors, and business partners when entering into new or renewed agreements.

Policy Violations

Employees who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary measures, including potential dismissal for gross misconduct. The company may also sever ties with suppliers, contractors, or business partners found to be in breach of this policy or involved in modern slavery.

Related Policies and Procedures

We have established several internal policies that promote ethical, fair, and transparent business practices.