Removals Scatford Modern Slavery Statement
Introduction and Purpose
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Removals Scatford has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to act ethically and with integrity and are committed to improving our practices to combat modern slavery in all its forms.
This statement is made in respect of the current financial year and covers our operations in the removals and relocation services sector, including our use of subcontractors, suppliers, and service partners.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
Removals Scatford maintains a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance stance towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, and all related abuses of human rights. We will not knowingly engage with, support, or benefit from any form of modern slavery in our own activities or through any organisation with which we do business.
All employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to uphold this standard. Any breach of this policy by an employee may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Any breach by a supplier or contractor may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Our Supply Chain and Risk Management
Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles, fuel, packing materials, warehousing, temporary labour, cleaning services, and other professional services. We recognise that certain parts of our supply chain may present higher risks, especially where there is reliance on low-skilled, temporary, or agency labour, or where sourcing occurs in regions with weaker labour protections.
To manage these risks, we aim to work with reputable, established suppliers that share our commitment to ethical conduct. When assessing potential and existing suppliers, we consider their labour practices, transparency, and approach to modern slavery prevention.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
Removals Scatford is implementing and enhancing due diligence and audit processes to identify, prevent, and mitigate modern slavery risks in our supply chain. These measures include:
Requiring suppliers to confirm that they do not engage in any form of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour and that they comply with all applicable labour and human rights legislation. Requesting information on suppliers policies, procedures, and training related to modern slavery and ethical employment practices. Conducting periodic assessments and, where appropriate, on-site checks or remote reviews to verify working conditions and labour practices. Reserving the right to conduct additional audits where concerns are raised or where higher risk is identified.
Where non-compliance or areas for improvement are identified, we will seek to work with suppliers to address issues within clear timeframes. If issues are not resolved satisfactorily, we will take appropriate action, which may include ending the relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Raising Issues
Removals Scatford encourages a culture of openness and accountability. We want employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers to feel empowered to speak up if they have concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices.
Concerns can be raised with line managers, senior management, or through internal reporting channels made available to staff. Reports can be made in confidence, and we will take all concerns seriously, investigate them promptly and fairly, and ensure that no one is treated unfavourably for reporting a genuine concern in good faith.
Training and Awareness
We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks across our workforce. Where appropriate, employees involved in procurement, supplier management, and operational oversight will receive guidance on identifying warning signs of modern slavery and on the correct procedures for escalating concerns.
We will continue to review and improve our training materials to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, and evolving risk areas in our sector.
Ongoing Improvement and Annual Review
Removals Scatford recognises that combating modern slavery is an ongoing process. We are committed to continuous improvement and will refine our policies, procedures, and monitoring activities as our understanding of the risks develops.
This statement and our wider approach to modern slavery will be reviewed at least annually by senior management. The review will consider the effectiveness of our current measures, feedback from audits, any reported concerns, and changes within our business or supply chain. Updates and enhancements will be implemented where necessary to strengthen our control framework and alignment with best practice.
Approval of this Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the leadership of Removals Scatford, who are responsible for ensuring that the commitments set out herein are implemented across our operations and supply chains.
