Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery Statement for Movers Paddington
Movers Paddington is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and in full compliance with all applicable laws regarding human rights and labour standards. This Modern Slavery Statement outlines our approach to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains and reflects our ongoing commitment to respect the dignity and rights of every individual.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
Movers Paddington has a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking. We do not accept or condone any practice that exploits people, denies them freedom of movement, or undermines their fundamental rights. This applies to all aspects of our business, including our employees, contractors, agency workers, and the suppliers and partners with whom we work.
All workers must be engaged on a voluntary basis and must be free to leave their employment in line with agreed notice periods. We do not tolerate the use of threats, coercion, deception, retention of identity documents, or the charging of recruitment fees that could lead to debt bondage or other exploitative conditions.
Our Supply Chain and Supplier Expectations
Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles, fuel, packaging materials, storage facilities, equipment, and various professional and support services. We expect every supplier and business partner to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery and to uphold labour practices that are lawful, fair, and respectful.
As part of our onboarding process, suppliers are required to confirm that they comply with all relevant legislation concerning modern slavery and human trafficking and that they maintain policies and procedures consistent with these principles. We reserve the right to cease working with any supplier that fails to meet our standards or that is unwilling to take corrective action where concerns are identified.
Supplier Audits and Due Diligence
Movers Paddington is committed to strengthening our due diligence procedures in relation to modern slavery. We carry out proportionate risk-based assessments of our suppliers, taking into account factors such as geography, type of service, and known sector risks. Where higher risks are identified, we may conduct additional checks or request further information on labour practices, recruitment processes, and worker protections.
We may undertake supplier audits, either directly or through third parties, to verify compliance with our expectations. These audits can include review of employment records, working conditions, and workforce interviews where appropriate. Where non-compliance or areas of concern are found, we work with the supplier on an improvement plan with clear timeframes. Persistent failure to implement improvements may result in termination of the business relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Movers Paddington encourages a culture of openness in which concerns about modern slavery and unethical behaviour can be raised without fear of retaliation. All employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers are encouraged to report any suspicion of modern slavery or exploitation they encounter in our operations or supply chains.
Concerns can be raised through internal management channels or via our established whistleblowing procedures. Reports may be made confidentially, and we will handle all information sensitively and, where possible, protect the identity of the individual raising the concern. Every report will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and appropriate action will be taken where issues are substantiated.
Training and Awareness
We recognise that awareness and understanding are crucial to identifying and preventing modern slavery. Movers Paddington provides relevant training to managers and staff involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management so they can recognise signs of exploitation and understand how to respond appropriately.
We periodically review and update internal guidance to reflect emerging risks and evolving best practice, ensuring our teams remain vigilant and informed about the indicators of modern slavery.
Monitoring, Annual Review, and Continuous Improvement
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the leadership of Movers Paddington. As part of this review, we assess the effectiveness of our policies, due diligence processes, training, and reporting mechanisms. We consider feedback from employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders and take into account changes in legislation, risk profiles, and industry standards.
Where opportunities for improvement are identified, we will update our procedures and implement additional controls as needed. By continually monitoring and enhancing our approach, Movers Paddington aims to reduce the risk of modern slavery within our business and supply chains and to contribute positively to wider efforts to eliminate exploitation in the moving and logistics sector.
