Modern Slavery Statement for Barnes Removals

Barnes Removals is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and with respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the principles and practices that guide our operations and those of the people and businesses we work with. We recognise that modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, and exploitation can occur in many industries and supply chains, and we maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of abuse, coercion, or unlawful labour practice.

Our approach is built on prevention, detection, and accountability. We expect all employees, contractors, and business partners to act in line with our values and to uphold the dignity of every individual. In the context of Barnes Removals, this means taking reasonable steps to ensure that the services and materials used in our operations are sourced from reputable organisations that share our commitment to lawful and fair employment.

The company’s Barnes Removals modern slavery statement applies to all areas of the business, including transport, storage, maintenance, cleaning, and procurement. We review risks across these areas regularly and give particular attention to labour-intensive services, subcontracted work, and suppliers operating in sectors where the risk of exploitation may be higher. Where risk is identified, we take proportionate action to assess, reduce, and monitor it.

Supplier oversight is a central part of our responsible business practices. Barnes Removals carries out supplier audits and due diligence checks to assess whether third parties comply with labour, safety, and employment standards. These audits may include document reviews, policy checks, and verification of employment practices. We also expect suppliers to maintain accurate records and cooperate fully with our compliance expectations.

Where concerns arise, we investigate them promptly and may require corrective action plans, further evidence, or the suspension of commercial activity if necessary. Our procurement process considers not only price and service quality, but also the ethical standards of the supplier. This helps ensure that our supply chain remains aligned with our commitment to a slavery-free Barnes Removals operation.

Training and awareness are also important elements of our control framework. Relevant staff receive guidance on recognising warning signs such as restricted freedom, unusual working conditions, withheld documents, or payments that suggest exploitation. By strengthening awareness, we aim to improve the chances that potential issues are identified early and addressed effectively.

We encourage a culture in which concerns can be raised safely and without fear of retaliation. Reporting channels are available for employees, contractors, and supply chain partners to report suspected wrongdoing, unethical conduct, or possible modern slavery indicators. Any report is treated seriously, handled discreetly, and reviewed in line with our internal procedures so that appropriate action can be taken quickly.

Barnes Removals understands that effective reporting depends on trust. For that reason, we promote openness, respect confidentiality where possible, and prohibit victimisation of anyone who raises a concern in good faith. This supports our wider commitment to responsible removals operations and reinforces the message that exploitation has no place in our business.

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains current, effective, and relevant to the risks we face. The annual review considers changes in legislation, business activity, supplier performance, audit outcomes, and any incidents or concerns raised during the year. Where improvements are identified, we update our controls, strengthen training, and refine our due diligence processes accordingly.