Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Kingston Upon Thames Movers 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.
Kingston Upon Thames Movers operates in the removals, logistics, and related support services sector. Our activities involve direct employment, subcontracted labour, vehicle and equipment procurement, and the use of facilities and services supplied by third parties. We recognise that these areas can carry risks of forced labour, exploitation, and other forms of modern slavery, and we are committed to identifying and addressing those risks.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
We maintain a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. Modern slavery is fundamentally incompatible with our values and our responsibility to employees, customers, and the wider community.
Our zero-tolerance policy applies to all individuals working for or on behalf of Kingston Upon Thames Movers, including employees, temporary workers, contractors, subcontractors, agency staff, and all suppliers. We expect the same high standards from our business partners, and we actively communicate that modern slavery in any form will not be tolerated.
Risk Assessment and Due Diligence
We regularly assess the nature and extent of our exposure to the risk of modern slavery within our operations and supply chains. Priority is given to higher-risk areas such as subcontracted labour, cleaning and facility services, uniform and equipment procurement, and international sourcing of materials or goods.
Due diligence checks are conducted when onboarding new suppliers and reviewing existing suppliers. These checks may include requesting information on labour practices, working conditions, recruitment processes, and confirmation of compliance with relevant legislation. We also review publicly available information and, where appropriate, request evidence of policies and statements addressing modern slavery.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers to share our commitment to ethical conduct and respect for human rights. Our contractual terms require suppliers to comply with applicable modern slavery and human trafficking laws and to implement equivalent standards within their own supply chains.
Kingston Upon Thames Movers conducts proportionate supplier audits, which may include on-site visits, document reviews, and discussions with management and, where feasible, with workers. These audits focus on working hours, wages, recruitment practices, identity documentation, accommodation, and grievance mechanisms. Where non-compliance or concern is identified, we seek corrective action with clear timescales. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to address issues, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We actively encourage the reporting of any concerns or suspicions about modern slavery within our operations or supply chains. Employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders are urged to speak up if they see, hear, or suspect any form of exploitation, forced labour, or human trafficking.
Reports can be made through internal reporting channels to line managers or senior management. Individuals raising genuine concerns will be protected from retaliation or detrimental treatment, even if those concerns turn out to be mistaken. All reports are treated seriously and investigated promptly, with appropriate remedial action taken where necessary.
Training and Awareness
We provide relevant training and guidance to staff, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management, to help them recognise indicators of modern slavery and understand how to respond to concerns. Awareness materials are made available to reinforce our zero-tolerance stance and to promote ethical behaviour throughout the business.
Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review
Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery approach sits with senior management, who review risks, performance, and emerging issues on a regular basis. We monitor the effectiveness of our actions through internal reporting, supplier feedback, audit outcomes, and incident reviews.
This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. As part of the annual review, we consider our progress, identify areas for improvement, and update our policies, procedures, and training as appropriate. By continuously improving our approach, Kingston Upon Thames Movers aims to minimise the risk of modern slavery within our business and to promote respect for human rights in the wider supply chain.
