Modern Slavery Statement for Removals Watford

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Removals Watford to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold human rights and to act ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Removals Watford has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, servitude and forced or compulsory labour. We are committed to ensuring that no such practices take place in any part of our business or through any of our suppliers and contractors.

We expect the same high standards from everyone we work with, including employees, agency workers, subcontractors and all suppliers connected to our removals, storage and logistics activities. Any evidence of non-compliance will be treated seriously and may result in the termination of contracts or working relationships.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Removals Watford provides removals and related services to residential and commercial customers. Our supply chains include providers of vehicles, fuel, packing materials, storage facilities, equipment, uniforms and various professional services.

We recognise that certain areas of the transport, logistics and warehousing sectors can present a higher risk of labour exploitation. We therefore take targeted measures to understand, monitor and address these risks, particularly where lower-skilled or temporary labour may be used.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

We are committed to working only with suppliers and contractors who share our ethical standards. As part of our onboarding and renewal processes, we seek assurance that our suppliers comply with all relevant labour, employment and human rights laws.

New and existing suppliers may be required to confirm that they do not engage in any form of modern slavery, that they have appropriate policies and procedures in place, and that they monitor their own supply chains. We reserve the right to request additional information and supporting documentation where risk is identified.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

Removals Watford conducts proportionate audits of selected suppliers based on risk, value and geographic considerations. These audits may include reviewing employment practices, worker documentation, accommodation arrangements and health and safety standards.

Where concerns are identified, we will work with the supplier to develop a corrective action plan with clear timescales. If a supplier fails to address issues or provides unsatisfactory responses, we may suspend or end the commercial relationship. We keep records of audit outcomes and use them to inform future risk assessments.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone connected to our business, including employees, agency workers, contractors and suppliers, to report any suspicions or concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Reports can be raised through internal management channels or directly to senior leadership.

All concerns raised in good faith will be taken seriously and investigated promptly and discreetly. We do not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who report potential wrongdoing. Where appropriate, we will involve relevant authorities and cooperate fully with any official investigations.

Training and Awareness

We provide appropriate training and guidance to managers and staff, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment and supplier management. This training covers indicators of modern slavery, how to respond to concerns and the importance of adhering to our zero-tolerance policy.

We also seek to increase awareness among our suppliers and business partners by communicating our expectations and sharing information about good practice in tackling modern slavery risks.

Governance and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery approach rests with the senior management team at Removals Watford. They ensure that our policies, procedures and controls remain effective, proportionate and aligned with legal requirements and industry standards.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually to reflect any changes in our business operations, legislation or identified risks. As part of this annual review, we assess the effectiveness of our actions, consider feedback from stakeholders and identify opportunities for continual improvement.

Removals Watford is committed to ongoing vigilance in preventing modern slavery and human trafficking. We will continue to strengthen our practices, collaborate with our partners and promote transparency throughout our operations and supply chains.