Modern Slavery Statement for Hire Man and Van
Hire Man and Van is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and with respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that as a moving and transport service provider, our activities may involve subcontractors, suppliers, temporary workers, and logistics partners across multiple locations. Because of this, we maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of modern slavery or abuse.
Our commitment applies to every part of the business, from recruitment and vehicle services to warehousing support, equipment supply, and outsourced operational work. We expect all employees, contractors, and partners to act in line with our values. Any breach of our standards is treated seriously and may result in termination of engagement, reporting to relevant authorities, or other appropriate action. Ethical business practice is not optional; it is a core requirement of working with Hire Man and Van.
We assess risk by reviewing our workforce arrangements, sourcing methods, and supplier relationships. While our service model is relatively direct, we understand that higher-risk issues can arise where goods or services are purchased from third parties, especially in areas such as vehicle maintenance, packing materials, cleaning, and temporary labour. We therefore apply proportionate due diligence, including supplier audits, document checks, and periodic reviews of labour practices.
Our supplier standards require all vendors to confirm compliance with applicable employment, wage, and safety laws. We expect suppliers to demonstrate that workers are employed voluntarily, are of legal working age, and are not subjected to debt bondage, passport retention, intimidation, or unfair deductions. Where concerns are identified, we request corrective action and monitor progress. If a supplier fails to meet our standards, we may suspend or end the relationship.
To support accountability, Hire Man and Van provides clear reporting channels for employees, contractors, and business partners to raise concerns confidentially. Reports may relate to suspected exploitation, unsafe work conditions, coercion, or any conduct inconsistent with this statement. Concerns are reviewed promptly and sensitively, with appropriate escalation to management. We aim to protect people who speak up and will not tolerate retaliation against anyone who reports in good faith.
Training and awareness are important parts of our approach. Relevant staff receive information on spotting warning signs, including unusual control over workers, restricted freedom of movement, poor accommodation conditions, or mismatches between pay and hours worked. Managers are encouraged to remain alert to risks during onboarding, supplier selection, and site visits. By building awareness, we strengthen our ability to identify and address potential issues early.
Our procurement decisions are guided by integrity and transparency. We prefer suppliers that can show strong governance, fair employment practices, and evidence of responsible recruitment. In addition, we seek to include contractual provisions that support compliance with anti-slavery expectations. These arrangements help ensure that Hire Man and Van modern slavery controls remain consistent across our operations and procurement activities.
The effectiveness of this statement depends on regular monitoring and improvement. We review our risk controls, audit findings, reported concerns, and supplier performance to identify where stronger safeguards may be needed. Lessons learned are used to update internal procedures, reinforce training, and improve due diligence. This approach helps us maintain a practical and proportionate response to modern slavery risks.
This statement is subject to an annual review by senior management, who consider whether our policies, risk assessments, and oversight measures remain fit for purpose. As part of that review, we examine any developments in legislation, industry practice, and operational risk. Where necessary, we will revise our statement and our procedures to reflect improved standards and expectations.
Hire Man and Van reaffirms its commitment to preventing modern slavery in all forms. Through a zero-tolerance policy, targeted supplier audits, reliable reporting channels, and an annual review process, we continue to strengthen our responsibilities to workers, customers, and the wider community. We believe that responsible business is built on dignity, fairness, and respect, and we will keep improving our safeguards to uphold those principles.