Modern Slavery Statement

Sutton Man and Van Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made on behalf of Sutton Man and Van in respect of the financial year ending 31 December. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. Sutton Man and Van is committed to conducting business ethically, transparently, and in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations relating to modern slavery.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Sutton Man and Van provides local and regional removal, transport, and related services to domestic and commercial customers. Our activities rely on a combination of directly engaged staff, casual labour, subcontracted drivers, vehicle hire providers, equipment suppliers, and office service providers. We recognise that elements of the logistics and labour supply sectors can be vulnerable to modern slavery risks, including forced labour, debt bondage, and exploitative working conditions. We therefore work to identify and manage these risks across our organisation and our supply chain.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to our own operations, our employees, contractors, agents, and all third parties who provide goods or services to Sutton Man and Van. Any form of coercion, forced or compulsory labour, child labour, or human trafficking is strictly prohibited. We expect everyone who works for or with us to share this commitment and to act with integrity in all business dealings.

All new employees, temporary workers, and suppliers are informed of our stance on modern slavery as part of our onboarding and engagement processes. Continuing relationships are dependent on adherence to our ethical standards and relevant legislation.

Supplier Standards and Audits

Sutton Man and Van seeks to build long-term relationships with suppliers that uphold responsible employment practices. We aim to work with suppliers that have policies and procedures in place to prevent modern slavery and that can demonstrate compliance on request.

We conduct proportionate due diligence and audits of our higher-risk suppliers, focusing in particular on labour providers, subcontracted drivers, and overseas manufacturers of uniforms, equipment, and vehicle parts. These audits may include review of employment records, right-to-work documentation, working hours, pay practices, recruitment methods, and accommodation arrangements where relevant.

Where issues or potential non-compliance are identified, we seek to work collaboratively with suppliers to agree corrective actions and timeframes. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to address concerns to our satisfaction, we reserve the right to review, suspend, or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

We are committed to creating an environment where concerns about modern slavery can be raised safely and without fear of retaliation. All employees, workers, contractors, and suppliers are encouraged to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery, whether within Sutton Man and Van, our supply chain, or among our business partners.

Concerns may be raised directly with line managers, a senior manager, or a designated member of the leadership team responsible for compliance and ethics. Reports can be made verbally or in writing. All reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly and impartially. Where appropriate, we will work with relevant authorities and specialist organisations.

No person raising a genuine concern in good faith will suffer any form of detrimental treatment for doing so. Any retaliation against individuals who report concerns will be treated as a disciplinary matter.

Training and Awareness

We recognise that awareness is essential for effective prevention. We aim to provide relevant training to managers, supervisors, and staff involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management so they can identify potential indicators of modern slavery and respond appropriately. We also aim to communicate key messages about modern slavery to all staff through internal communications, inductions, and periodic reminders.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery approach sits with the senior management team of Sutton Man and Van. They review our risk profile, oversee supplier due diligence processes, and monitor the effectiveness of our controls and actions.

This statement and our associated procedures are reviewed at least once each year, or sooner if there are significant changes in our business, our supply chain, or in relevant legislation or guidance. As part of this annual review, we assess the outcomes of supplier audits, any concerns reported, training delivered, and any incidents or near misses. We use this analysis to identify improvements and to update our policies and processes where necessary.

This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the leadership of Sutton Man and Van, who are committed to its implementation and to continuous improvement in our efforts to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our operations.