Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is issued by Removals Swiss Cottage in respect of its activities for the financial year. It outlines the steps we are taking to identify, prevent, and address modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and our supply chains. We are committed to conducting business ethically, transparently, and with integrity.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Removals Swiss Cottage provides house and office removals, packing, storage, and associated logistics services. Our operations rely on a network of suppliers and contractors, including vehicle providers, equipment manufacturers, packaging material suppliers, storage facilities, recruitment agencies, and other support services. We recognise that the risk of modern slavery can exist at multiple points across these supply chains, especially where there are complex subcontracting arrangements or lower-paid, temporary, or migrant labour.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

Removals Swiss Cottage has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking. We are committed to acting professionally and fairly in all our business dealings and relationships and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls designed to ensure that modern slavery is not taking place in our own business or any of our supply chains. We expect the same high standards from all our suppliers, contractors, and business partners.

Policies and Governance

Our approach to preventing modern slavery is supported by internal policies and procedures covering ethical conduct, recruitment, supplier management, and whistleblowing. These policies are reviewed periodically to ensure they remain effective and aligned with applicable legislation and recognised best practice. Managers are responsible for promoting awareness of these policies, and all employees are required to comply with them as a condition of their employment.

Due Diligence and Supplier Audits

We conduct proportionate due diligence on suppliers and contractors before entering into new relationships and when renewing existing arrangements. This includes assessing the nature of the goods and services supplied, the geographic location of operations, and the use of subcontractors or agency labour.

Where we identify higher-risk relationships, we may carry out additional checks, request documentary evidence of labour standards and employment practices, or seek assurances regarding compliance with relevant laws. We reserve the right to conduct supplier audits, either announced or unannounced, to verify adherence to our standards. Any supplier found to be involved in modern slavery, or unwilling to implement corrective actions, may have their contract terminated.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our employees, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, site management, and supplier engagement. Training and guidance are provided to help staff recognise potential indicators of exploitation, understand our policies, and respond appropriately to concerns.

We also encourage open dialogue with our suppliers so they understand our expectations and can cascade equivalent standards throughout their own supply chains.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Employees, contractors, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspicions or concerns related to modern slavery or human trafficking in our operations or supply chains. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting lines or to senior management. Reports can be made in confidence, and individuals who raise concerns in good faith will not suffer any form of retaliation or detrimental treatment as a result.

All reports and allegations will be taken seriously and investigated promptly and fairly. Where appropriate, we will cooperate with relevant authorities and take immediate action to protect any affected individuals.

Monitoring, Accountability and Annual Review

Removals Swiss Cottage is committed to continually improving its approach to identifying and addressing modern slavery risks. We will monitor the effectiveness of our policies, due diligence processes, and training activities by reviewing supplier performance, incident reports, audit findings, and staff feedback.

This Statement will be reviewed at least annually and updated as necessary to reflect changes in our business, supply chains, risk profile, or legal requirements. The review will consider the outcomes of any investigations, audits, or risk assessments undertaken during the year. The revised Statement will be approved by the leadership of Removals Swiss Cottage and made available to relevant stakeholders.

By maintaining strong standards, open communication, and a clear zero-tolerance stance, Removals Swiss Cottage aims to play its part in combating modern slavery and promoting fair and safe working conditions across all areas of our business.