Modern Slavery Statement
Merton Man and Van Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Merton Man and Van takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting business ethically, with integrity, and in full compliance with applicable laws relating to modern slavery.
This statement covers our financial year and applies to all employees, contractors, agency staff, and suppliers who provide goods and services to Merton Man and Van.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
Merton Man and Van has a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, human trafficking, child labour, and any form of servitude. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation or individual involved in such practices, and we expect the same commitment from all parties with whom we work.
All workers must be employed voluntarily, have the freedom to leave their employment in line with legal and contractual requirements, and must not be required to surrender identity documents or pay recruitment fees as a condition of work.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Merton Man and Van provides man and van and related transport services. Our supply chains primarily include vehicle suppliers, fuel providers, equipment and materials suppliers, uniform and protective clothing providers, and a range of subcontracted logistics and support services.
While our direct operations are relatively low risk, we recognise that risks may exist deeper in our supply chains, including in the sourcing of vehicles, parts, and equipment. We therefore take proportionate and ongoing steps to identify, prevent, and address any such risks.
Supplier Standards and Due Diligence
We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to uphold our values and to comply with applicable labour, human rights, and modern slavery laws. Our supplier standards include clear expectations that:
All work must be freely chosen and workers must not be coerced.
Workers must be of legal working age and not subject to child labour or exploitation.
Wages, working hours, and conditions must meet or exceed legal and industry standards.
Workers must be treated with dignity and respect, without abuse, harassment, or intimidation.
Where appropriate, we seek written confirmation of compliance with these standards from key suppliers and may require them to provide evidence of their own modern slavery policies and procedures.
Supplier Audits and Monitoring
Merton Man and Van undertakes proportionate risk-based monitoring of suppliers. This may include desk-based reviews, requests for documentation and policies, and, where justified by risk, on-site audits or visits to assess working conditions and employment practices.
Where concerns are identified, we will work with the supplier to agree corrective actions and timescales. If a supplier fails to take adequate steps to address modern slavery risks or breaches, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship, subject to contractual obligations and legal requirements.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing
We encourage all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers to raise concerns about potential or actual modern slavery in our operations or supply chains. Concerns may relate to working conditions, recruitment practices, treatment of workers, or any suspicion of forced or trafficked labour.
Reports can be made confidentially through internal reporting lines or to a manager. We will investigate all credible concerns and take appropriate action. No one will suffer retaliation or detrimental treatment for raising a concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated.
Training and Awareness
We aim to raise awareness of modern slavery among relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, supplier management, and recruitment. Training and guidance are provided to help staff recognise indicators of modern slavery and understand how to respond and escalate concerns appropriately.
We also seek to communicate our expectations to suppliers and contractors, reinforcing the importance of ethical conduct, responsible recruitment, and respect for human rights.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Merton Man and Van is committed to continuous improvement in our efforts to prevent modern slavery. We regularly review our policies, procedures, and risk assessments to ensure they remain effective and proportionate to the nature and scale of our operations.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually by senior management. As part of each review, we consider our findings from supplier engagement, audits, and reported concerns, as well as any changes in legislation or best practice. Where opportunities for improvement are identified, we update our processes and communicate changes to relevant stakeholders.
This statement has been approved by the management of Merton Man and Van and represents our ongoing commitment to combatting modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our business.
