West Kensington Removals Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by West Kensington Removals in respect of our financial year and outlines the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting business ethically and with integrity, ensuring that the rights and dignity of every individual are respected.

Our Business and Supply Chain

West Kensington Removals provides residential and commercial removal, packing, and storage services. Our operations rely on a workforce of employees and subcontractors, as well as a network of suppliers providing vehicles, equipment, packing materials, and storage facilities. We recognise that elements of the logistics and removals sector, particularly the use of temporary labour and subcontracted services, can present risks related to modern slavery and human trafficking.

We are committed to identifying, assessing, and addressing these risks within both our direct operations and our wider supply chain.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

West Kensington Removals has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, child labour, servitude, and human trafficking. This applies to everyone working for or on behalf of our business, including employees, agency staff, subcontractors, and suppliers.

We expect our suppliers and business partners to uphold the same high standards. Any breach or suspected breach of our modern slavery policy is treated as a serious matter that may lead to the termination of contracts and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.

Policies and Governance

Our approach to modern slavery is embedded within our wider ethical, procurement, and recruitment practices. We are committed to fair recruitment, ensuring that employment is freely chosen, that workers are free to leave with reasonable notice, and that no worker is required to pay recruitment fees or surrender identity documents as a condition of work.

Managers and supervisors are responsible for promoting a culture of openness and respect, and for escalating any concern relating to potential modern slavery risks. Senior management oversees the effectiveness of these measures and ensures that any issues are addressed promptly.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We conduct proportionate due diligence on our suppliers and subcontractors to assess potential modern slavery risks. This includes assessing their location, the nature of the services or products they provide, and their own ethical and labour standards.

Where we identify higher-risk areas, we may carry out more detailed reviews, request evidence of labour standards, and require suppliers to confirm compliance with our modern slavery requirements. We reserve the right to conduct audits of selected suppliers, either remotely or on site, to verify adherence to our standards. Failure to comply may result in corrective action plans, closer monitoring, or termination of the business relationship.

Training and Awareness

We aim to raise awareness of modern slavery among relevant staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and the management of subcontractors. Training and guidance include how to recognise indicators of modern slavery, the importance of maintaining ethical supply chains, and the procedures for reporting concerns.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

All workers, including agency staff and subcontractors, are encouraged to report any suspicions or concerns about potential modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised with line managers or senior management without fear of retaliation or detrimental treatment.

We treat all reports seriously and handle them as sensitively and confidentially as possible. Investigations are conducted promptly, and appropriate action is taken where wrongdoing or risk is identified.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

West Kensington Removals is committed to continually improving its approach to tackling modern slavery. We periodically review our risk assessments, due diligence processes, and training materials to reflect evolving best practice and changes in our operations and supply chains.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed and updated annually by senior management to ensure it remains effective and relevant. Any significant changes to our operations or risk profile are considered as part of this review, and further measures are implemented where necessary to strengthen our safeguards.

This statement has been approved by the management of West Kensington Removals, who are responsible for its implementation and ongoing review.