Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery Statement
This modern slavery statement sets out the principles and controls we apply to prevent slavery, servitude, forced labour, and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to maintaining a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of exploitation and to acting with integrity, fairness, and accountability across every part of our business. Our commitment is supported by policies, training, oversight, and continuous improvement.
We recognise that modern slavery can take many forms, including debt bondage, deception, coercion, and the withholding of personal freedom. To address these risks, we expect all colleagues, contractors, and suppliers to uphold lawful, ethical, and respectful working practices. This statement reflects our ongoing effort to identify potential risks, strengthen safeguards, and respond quickly where concerns arise.
We operate a zero-tolerance policy toward modern slavery and human trafficking. Any credible indication of abuse is treated as a serious matter and may result in disciplinary action, contract termination, or referral to the appropriate authorities. Our internal procedures require managers to escalate concerns promptly and to preserve evidence where a risk has been identified.
Our due diligence process begins before onboarding and continues throughout the supplier relationship. We assess risk based on geography, sector, labour model, and the nature of goods or services provided. Where higher risks are identified, we may request additional documentation, conduct enhanced checks, or impose corrective actions. We also expect suppliers to cascade equivalent standards to their own subcontractors and labour providers.
Supplier audits are an important part of our modern slavery controls. Audits may be announced or unannounced, depending on the level of risk and the circumstances involved. They can include site inspections, interviews, document reviews, wage and hour checks, and assessments of recruitment practices. When weaknesses are found, we require a clear remediation plan and monitor progress until the issue is resolved.
We provide reporting channels so that concerns can be raised safely, confidentially, and without fear of retaliation. Anyone who suspects a breach of this modern slavery policy is encouraged to report it immediately through the approved internal routes. Reports may be made by employees, agency workers, suppliers, or other stakeholders, and every concern is reviewed with appropriate urgency and discretion.
All reports are assessed by trained personnel and handled in line with our investigation procedures. Depending on the matter, we may interview relevant parties, review records, and engage specialist support. Where victims or at-risk individuals are identified, we will prioritise protective measures and cooperate with relevant agencies as required. Retaliation against a whistleblower is strictly prohibited.
Training plays a central role in our anti-slavery framework. Relevant teams receive guidance on recognising warning signs, managing procurement risks, and applying the correct escalation steps. We also reinforce expectations through contract clauses, supplier onboarding checks, and periodic policy communications. These measures help embed awareness across our organisation and strengthen our response to evolving risks.
Our governance arrangements ensure that modern slavery oversight is integrated into business decision-making. Senior leadership receives updates on identified risks, audit outcomes, and remediation actions. This approach supports accountability at the highest level and ensures that lessons learned are translated into practical improvements in procurement, sourcing, and supplier management.
We will review this statement annually to confirm that it remains accurate, relevant, and aligned with legal requirements and business practices. The annual review considers changes in risk profile, audit findings, incident trends, and feedback from assurance activities. Where improvements are needed, we will update our controls and set measurable actions for the next reporting period.
This modern slavery statement demonstrates our ongoing commitment to preventing exploitation and protecting vulnerable people in our operations and supply chains. Through a zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, confidential reporting channels, and an annual review process, we aim to maintain robust standards and uphold responsible business conduct at every level.
