Removals Waterloo Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps Removals Waterloo has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking from occurring within our operations and supply chains. It applies to all staff, contractors, and suppliers working with or on behalf of Removals Waterloo.

Modern slavery is a crime and a gross violation of fundamental human rights. It can take many forms, including slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour, debt bondage, and human trafficking. Removals Waterloo is fully committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business dealings and relationships, and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery is not taking place anywhere in our business or supply chains.

Zero-Tolerance Approach

Removals Waterloo maintains a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly work with any individual or organisation involved in such practices. This commitment is embedded in our company policies, decision-making processes, and day-to-day operations.

All employees, from senior management to operational staff, are expected to uphold this policy and act in accordance with our ethical standards. Any breach of this policy by an employee will be treated as a serious disciplinary matter and may result in termination of employment. Any breach by a supplier, contractor, or other third party may result in the suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles, fuel, equipment, packaging materials, storage facilities, and specialist subcontracted services. We expect all suppliers to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery and to comply with all applicable labour and human rights laws.

We are working to integrate modern slavery and human rights criteria into our supplier selection, onboarding, and performance review processes. This includes seeking assurances regarding the absence of forced labour, child labour, and exploitative working practices.

Removals Waterloo conducts proportionate audits and assessments of key suppliers, with a focus on those operating in higher-risk sectors or regions. These audits may include document reviews, site visits, and interviews, focusing on working conditions, recruitment practices, and the use of subcontractors or temporary labour. Where concerns are identified, we will work with the supplier to agree corrective actions and timescales. If issues are not resolved to our satisfaction, we reserve the right to reconsider or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Removals Waterloo encourages a culture of openness and accountability. We have established internal reporting channels that enable employees to raise concerns about modern slavery or unethical behaviour in confidence and without fear of retaliation.

Employees are encouraged to report any suspicion of modern slavery in our own operations or in those of our suppliers to their line manager or a member of senior management. Managers receiving such reports are required to escalate them appropriately and ensure that they are investigated promptly and thoroughly. We also expect our suppliers to maintain their own effective whistleblowing mechanisms so that workers in their organisations can safely raise concerns.

All reports will be treated seriously. Where modern slavery is suspected or identified, Removals Waterloo will take appropriate action, which may include engaging with the relevant authorities and supporting affected individuals where it is within our power to do so.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with senior management, who ensure that our policies are implemented effectively and reviewed regularly. Operational managers are responsible for applying these policies in their teams and supply chain interactions.

We provide targeted training and guidance to relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, supplier management, and recruitment, to help them recognise indicators of modern slavery and understand how to respond. Awareness materials are made available to all staff so they understand our zero-tolerance approach and their role in upholding it.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Removals Waterloo is committed to continual improvement in our efforts to prevent modern slavery. We monitor the effectiveness of our measures through regular reviews of incidents reported, audit findings, supplier performance, and feedback from staff and stakeholders.

This statement and the supporting policies are reviewed at least annually by senior management. The review considers changes in legislation, evolving best practice, risk assessments, and the outcomes of any investigations or audits carried out during the year. Where necessary, we update our procedures and implement additional controls to strengthen our approach.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement has been approved by the leadership of Removals Waterloo and represents our ongoing commitment to operate our business in a way that respects and protects the rights and dignity of all people.