Modern Slavery Statement

Dartford Man and Van Modern Slavery Statement

Dartford Man and Van is committed to conducting its business with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our operations and our supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to identify, address, and mitigate the risk of modern slavery in all aspects of our business.

Our Zero Tolerance Approach

We operate a strict zero tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to all individuals working for or on behalf of Dartford Man and Van, including employees, agency staff, contractors, and suppliers. Any form of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, servitude, or child labour is strictly prohibited.

All staff are expected to act with integrity and to uphold our values. We will take immediate and decisive action where we identify any breach of this policy, which may include terminating commercial relationships, reporting concerns to relevant authorities, and taking internal disciplinary measures where appropriate.

Scope and Responsibility

This statement covers all activities carried out by Dartford Man and Van, including domestic and commercial removals, transportation, storage services, and related logistics support. The senior management team holds overall responsibility for ensuring this statement is implemented, maintained, and regularly reviewed.

Managers at all levels are responsible for ensuring that those reporting to them understand and comply with this policy. Every employee has a duty to be vigilant, to raise concerns, and to support our efforts to identify and prevent modern slavery.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We recognise that the greatest risk of modern slavery may exist within our supply chains. As such, we are committed to working only with suppliers and partners who share our values and meet our ethical standards. Our key suppliers include providers of vehicles, fuel, packaging materials, warehousing, and labour services.

We assess new suppliers based on their compliance with labour laws, health and safety requirements, and human rights standards. Where appropriate, we seek evidence of their own modern slavery policies and procedures. We reserve the right to conduct supplier audits, which may include on-site visits, document reviews, and interviews with key personnel to verify compliance.

If we identify non-compliance or potential risks, we will work with the supplier to put corrective actions in place within a defined timeframe. Where serious or repeated breaches occur, we will consider suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Due Diligence and Risk Management

We apply a risk-based approach to modern slavery, reviewing our operations and supply chains to identify areas where the risk may be higher. Factors considered include geographic location, type of service provided, and the use of temporary or third-party labour.

Our due diligence processes may include risk assessments for new suppliers, contract clauses related to compliance with modern slavery legislation, and periodic checks on high-risk categories. We aim to continually improve these processes as our understanding of modern slavery risks develops.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

We encourage all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery without delay. Concerns can be raised directly with a line manager or a senior member of the management team. Where an individual feels unable to raise a concern through these channels, they are encouraged to speak to another trusted senior colleague.

All reports will be treated seriously and investigated promptly. We will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. Confidentiality will be respected as far as possible, and appropriate action will be taken where issues are identified.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery among our employees. Where relevant to their roles, staff are informed about the signs of exploitation and the correct procedures for reporting concerns. Managers are responsible for reinforcing these messages and ensuring their teams understand the importance of vigilance.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually by the senior management team to ensure it remains effective, up to date, and aligned with current legislation and best practice. As part of the review, we will consider any incidents reported, audit findings, stakeholder feedback, and changes in our operational or supply chain structure.

We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach to preventing modern slavery. Over time, we aim to enhance our due diligence, strengthen supplier engagement, and further embed respect for human rights across our business operations and relationships.