Modern Slavery Statement for Man And Van Cowley
Man And Van Cowley is committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps taken to prevent slavery, forced labour, servitude, and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of exploitation and expect the same high standards from everyone who works with or for us. Our commitment applies to all business activities, including vehicle sourcing, maintenance, packing materials, storage support, subcontracted services, and any external suppliers engaged in our operations.
We recognise that modern slavery can occur in many sectors and may be hidden behind complex supply chains. For that reason, Man And Van Cowley takes a risk-based approach to prevention, focusing on areas where labour exploitation may be more likely. This includes checking labour practices, verifying the legitimacy of suppliers, and ensuring that employment is voluntary, fairly paid, and compliant with applicable laws. Our goal is to support a responsible, transparent, and ethical business environment across the Man and Van Cowley service network.
We also expect managers, contractors, and suppliers to uphold our standards. Any breach of our ethical expectations may lead to corrective action, suspension of a business relationship, or termination where appropriate. By promoting accountability at every level, the Man & Van Cowley team reinforces a clear message: exploitation has no place in our organisation.
To support this policy, we carry out supplier due diligence and regular supplier audits. These audits review wage practices, recruitment methods, identity documentation, and the use of subcontracted labour. Where risks are identified, we request evidence of remedial action and monitor progress carefully. New suppliers are assessed before engagement, and existing suppliers may be reviewed more frequently if they operate in higher-risk sectors or geographies. This approach helps the Cowley Man and Van operation remain vigilant and responsive.
We encourage everyone connected with our business to report concerns without fear of retaliation. Reporting channels include internal management review, written reporting procedures, and confidential escalation routes for suspected abuse, coercion, or unsafe working conditions. All concerns are treated seriously and investigated promptly, with respect for confidentiality wherever possible. A strong reporting culture is essential to the effectiveness of this Man And Van Cowley modern slavery statement, because early reporting can help stop harm before it escalates.
Training and awareness are also important parts of our prevention framework. Staff involved in procurement, scheduling, and supplier management are encouraged to understand the warning signs of exploitation, such as unusual wage deductions, restrictions on movement, or reluctance to provide employment records. By improving awareness, Man and Van in Cowley strengthens its ability to identify issues and respond appropriately. We also encourage responsible record-keeping so that decisions about suppliers and labour arrangements remain transparent and traceable.
Our commitment to ethical conduct is reviewed through an ongoing governance process. The statement is assessed annually to make sure it remains relevant, effective, and aligned with legal duties and best practice. The annual review considers incidents, audit findings, supplier performance, and any changes in the risk profile of our operations. This helps ensure that the Man And Van Cowley statement evolves with our business and continues to support meaningful action against modern slavery.
Where issues are identified, we take a proportionate and constructive response. This may include requesting further evidence, setting corrective deadlines, improving supplier oversight, or ending a relationship if serious concerns cannot be resolved. We believe that prevention is most effective when backed by practical enforcement and consistent follow-up. Our zero-tolerance policy is therefore not only a principle but a working standard that guides daily decisions throughout the Man And Van Cowley organisation.
In addition, we aim to work only with partners who share our commitment to lawful and ethical labour practices. Supplier expectations are communicated clearly, and compliance is considered when selecting and retaining business partners. We recognise that modern slavery prevention is an ongoing responsibility, and every stage of the supply chain must be monitored with care. The Man and Van Cowley modern slavery policy is designed to protect workers, reduce risk, and promote fair treatment.
This statement reflects our current approach and the standards we intend to maintain and strengthen. Through supplier audits, reporting channels, annual review, and a firm zero-tolerance position, Man And Van Cowley remains committed to preventing modern slavery in all forms. We will continue to improve our controls, review our risks, and act decisively wherever concerns arise.