Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery Statement for Swiss Cottage Removals
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Swiss Cottage Removals to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting our activities ethically, transparently, and in full respect of human rights.
Our Commitment and Scope
Swiss Cottage Removals recognises that modern slavery, including forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, and child labour, is a severe violation of fundamental human rights. We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery in all its forms. This statement applies to all employees, workers, contractors, and suppliers who provide goods or services directly or indirectly to our business.
We are committed to continuous improvement in identifying, assessing, and addressing the risks of modern slavery. Our leadership team is responsible for ensuring that this commitment is embedded across our operations and that all colleagues understand their role in upholding it.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
Our zero-tolerance policy means that any form of modern slavery connected to our business is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. We expect the same standards from all those we work with. If evidence of modern slavery is identified within our operations or supply chains, we will take immediate and decisive action, which may include suspension or termination of contracts, notification to relevant authorities, and support for affected individuals where appropriate.
All managers are responsible for promoting a culture where exploitation is never ignored and where concerns are treated seriously, investigated promptly, and resolved fairly.
Supply Chain Standards and Audits
Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles, equipment, packing materials, storage facilities, subcontracted labour, and ancillary services. We seek to work only with suppliers who share our commitment to ethical conduct and the protection of human rights.
We require suppliers to confirm that they comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws and that they do not engage in or tolerate modern slavery in any part of their business. Where proportionate to the level of risk, we conduct supplier assessments and audits that may include questionnaires, document reviews, and site visits. These activities are designed to identify potential issues, verify compliance, and support our suppliers in improving their own practices.
We reserve the right to conduct follow-up audits if concerns are raised or if changes in a supplier's operations increase the risk of exploitation.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing
We encourage employees, workers, contractors, and other stakeholders to raise concerns about modern slavery or any unethical conduct without fear of retaliation. Concerns can be reported to line managers or senior management, or through internal reporting channels established by the company.
All reports will be taken seriously and handled sensitively. Investigations will be carried out by appropriate personnel, and, where necessary, external experts may be engaged. We will protect those who raise concerns in good faith and will not tolerate victimisation or adverse treatment of anyone who reports a suspicion or participates in an investigation.
Training and Awareness
Swiss Cottage Removals aims to increase awareness of modern slavery risks among employees, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management. Training and guidance are provided so that staff can recognise indicators of modern slavery, understand how to respond, and know how to escalate concerns appropriately.
We regularly review our internal policies to ensure that they support fair recruitment, safe working conditions, and the protection of vulnerable workers who may be at greater risk of exploitation.
Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement
We are committed to monitoring the effectiveness of our actions to prevent modern slavery and to improving our approach over time. Key performance indicators may include the number of supplier audits conducted, training participation, and the handling of reported concerns.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the leadership team to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with legal and best practice developments. Where needed, we will update our processes, training, and supplier requirements to strengthen our safeguards and further reduce the risk of exploitation in our operations and supply chains.
This statement represents the ongoing commitment of Swiss Cottage Removals to act ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implement robust systems and controls that prevent modern slavery and human trafficking.
