Southwark Removals Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Southwark Removals in respect of the financial year ending 31 December and sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Southwark Removals is committed to conducting business responsibly, ethically and in full compliance with applicable laws and recognised human rights standards.

Modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights and includes slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour and human trafficking. We recognise that the removals, logistics and associated services sectors can be exposed to risks, particularly in relation to agency labour, subcontracted transport services, warehousing and the procurement of goods and equipment. We are determined to identify, mitigate and, where possible, eliminate such risks.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Southwark Removals has a clear zero-tolerance policy toward modern slavery and human trafficking in all forms. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, organisation or business that is involved in, or benefits from, modern slavery. This commitment applies to our own operations, to our employees at every level and to all third parties acting on our behalf.

All employees, contractors and representatives are expected to act with integrity and to uphold our values. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious disciplinary matter and may result in termination of employment or business relationships. Where appropriate, we will also cooperate with law enforcement and relevant authorities.

Our Supply Chain and Supplier Audits

Our supply chain includes providers of transport and logistics services, storage and warehousing facilities, packaging materials, vehicles, fuel, equipment and various professional and support services. We aim to work with reputable suppliers who share our commitment to high labour and human rights standards.

To support this, we are strengthening our supplier due diligence and audit processes. New suppliers are assessed on their ethical practices, including their own modern slavery policies and procedures. We reserve the right to conduct audits and request evidence of compliance, such as statements, policies, training records and relevant certifications. Where we identify concerns, we may require corrective action plans, increased monitoring or, where necessary, the termination of the relationship.

For existing suppliers, we are continuing to review contracts and commercial arrangements to ensure they contain appropriate obligations relating to modern slavery, transparency and cooperation. We will prioritise higher-risk categories and locations for more detailed scrutiny.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

Southwark Removals encourages everyone associated with our business, including employees, agency staff, contractors, suppliers and their workers, to speak up if they suspect modern slavery or unethical labour practices. We are committed to ensuring that concerns can be raised safely and without fear of retaliation.

Concerns can be reported to a line manager or senior manager, or raised through our internal reporting processes. Reports may be made confidentially and will be treated seriously and sensitively. All credible allegations will be investigated promptly and, if necessary, escalated to senior management. Where appropriate, we will also liaise with external advisers and relevant authorities to ensure proper handling and resolution of the matter.

We do not tolerate any victimisation or disadvantage towards anyone who raises a concern in good faith, even if it is not ultimately substantiated.

Training, Awareness and Continuous Improvement

We recognise that training and awareness are essential in preventing modern slavery. Relevant employees, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, supplier management and site operations, are provided with information and guidance to help them understand the indicators of modern slavery and the steps to take if they have concerns.

We are working to embed respect for human rights into our day-to-day decision making and culture. This includes integrating modern slavery risk considerations into supplier selection, contract management and operational planning. We will continue to learn from industry guidance, best practice and feedback from our stakeholders.

Monitoring and Annual Review

Southwark Removals is committed to monitoring the effectiveness of our efforts to combat modern slavery. We will review this Modern Slavery Statement at least once every year, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, our business activities or identified risks.

The annual review will consider the actions taken during the year, any reported incidents or concerns, the outcomes of supplier audits, and the effectiveness of our training and awareness activities. We will use these findings to improve our policies, processes and controls, and to set clear objectives for the following year.

This statement has been approved by the management of Southwark Removals and represents our ongoing commitment to act with integrity, uphold human rights and play our part in eliminating modern slavery and human trafficking from our business and supply chains.