This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps that Richmond upon Thames Removals has taken and is continuing to take to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not taking place within our business or our supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our operations and relationships.
Richmond upon Thames Removals operates a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and all forms of exploitation. We recognise that the removals and logistics sector can be exposed to labour risks and we are determined to prevent any such practices within our organisation and among those who work with us.
All directors, managers, employees, contractors and suppliers are required to uphold this commitment. Any involvement in, or failure to report suspicion of, modern slavery or human trafficking is treated as a serious breach of our standards and may result in termination of employment or contract, and, where relevant, referral to the appropriate authorities.
Richmond upon Thames Removals provides residential and commercial removal and associated services. Our supply chains include, but are not limited to, vehicle and equipment providers, packing material suppliers, facilities and maintenance providers, and labour agencies or subcontractors who may support operational peaks.
We expect all parties within our supply chains to share our commitment to ethical labour practices and to comply with applicable employment, health and safety, and human rights legislation in the jurisdictions where they operate.
We assess the risk of modern slavery and human trafficking in our supply chains and take proportionate steps to manage that risk. New suppliers are evaluated against our ethical and labour standards before approval. We seek assurance that they maintain transparent recruitment, pay and working conditions, and that they prohibit forced, bonded or involuntary labour.
Our supplier management process includes periodic audits and reviews. These may involve requests for written confirmations of compliance, examination of relevant policies and records, and, where appropriate, site visits. Where higher risks are identified, we may apply enhanced due diligence, including more frequent audits and a requirement for corrective action plans.
If a supplier fails to meet our requirements or refuses to cooperate with audits or improvement measures, we reserve the right to reconsider and, if necessary, terminate the business relationship.
We aim to equip our staff with the knowledge to identify and respond to potential indicators of modern slavery. Induction for new employees includes information on our zero-tolerance policy and expectations on ethical conduct. Relevant teams, such as operations and procurement, receive focused guidance on assessing labour risks and escalating concerns.
Managers are responsible for promoting a culture in which exploitation is never tolerated, and in which concerns can be raised without fear of victimisation. Compliance with our modern slavery commitments forms part of our wider governance and conduct framework.
Richmond upon Thames Removals encourages anyone connected with our business, including employees, agency workers, subcontractors and suppliers, to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery or human trafficking. Concerns may relate to our own operations or to any organisation within our supply chain.
Reports can be made through internal reporting lines or directly to senior management. We treat all concerns seriously and, where possible, confidentially. No one who raises a concern in good faith will suffer retaliation or adverse treatment as a result of speaking up. We investigate credible reports promptly and take appropriate action, which may include engaging with the supplier, revising contractual terms, escalating to authorities, or ending a commercial relationship.
We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires continuous vigilance and improvement. Richmond upon Thames Removals is committed to reviewing this Modern Slavery Statement and our related policies, procedures and training on an annual basis, or more frequently if required by changes in law, guidance or risk profile.
As part of this annual review, we consider the effectiveness of our supplier audits, the adequacy of our reporting channels, feedback from staff and partners, and any incidents or concerns raised during the year. Where opportunities for improvement are identified, we will update our practices and communicate relevant changes across the business and to key suppliers.
This Modern Slavery Statement reflects our commitment to maintaining ethical operations and upholding the rights and dignity of all individuals connected with our services.
