Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement for Barnes Removals

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Barnes Removals is taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our relationships and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery does not take place within our organisation.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Barnes Removals operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, servitude and human trafficking. This commitment applies to every aspect of our activities, including our own workforce, agency staff, contractors, and all suppliers that support our removals, storage, logistics and associated services.

We expect the same high standards from all individuals and organisations we work with. Any breach or suspected breach of our zero-tolerance policy will be treated seriously and may result in termination of contracts or working relationships, as well as reporting to the appropriate authorities where required.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Barnes Removals provides domestic and commercial removals and storage services. Our supply chain includes providers of vehicles and equipment, fuel and maintenance services, packaging materials, warehousing, property and facility services, and labour agencies. We recognise that certain parts of the supply chain, such as agency labour and manufacturing of materials, may be at a higher risk of labour exploitation and we focus additional attention on these areas.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We are committed to working only with suppliers who share our ethical standards. All key suppliers are required to confirm that they comply with applicable employment legislation and that they have their own measures in place to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking.

As part of our due diligence and ongoing risk management, we:

Carry out proportionate checks on new suppliers, particularly those providing labour-intensive services or operating in higher-risk sectors or regions.

Include contractual provisions that require adherence to modern slavery and human rights standards, and that allow us to review or terminate relationships where non-compliance is identified.

Undertake periodic audits and assessments of key and high-risk suppliers, which may include requesting documentation, conducting site visits where practical, and reviewing working conditions, recruitment practices and worker welfare arrangements.

Where issues are identified, we will work with the supplier on corrective actions and set clear timescales for improvement. If satisfactory improvement is not achieved, we will consider ending the relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

Barnes Removals encourages all employees, agency workers, contractors, suppliers and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions about modern slavery in our own operations or anywhere in our supply chain.

Concerns can be raised confidentially through internal reporting channels, including line managers, senior managers or designated company contacts. Reports may be made anonymously if preferred. We will investigate all reports thoroughly and sensitively, ensuring that no one who raises a concern in good faith suffers any form of retaliation or detrimental treatment.

Where appropriate, we will cooperate fully with law enforcement and relevant authorities and take immediate steps to protect any individuals who may be at risk.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks across our organisation. Relevant staff, including those involved in procurement, recruitment and supplier management, receive guidance on recognising potential indicators of exploitation and on the correct procedures for raising and handling concerns.

We communicate this Modern Slavery Statement internally to ensure that all employees understand our expectations and the role they play in supporting our zero-tolerance approach.

Monitoring, Governance and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior management of Barnes Removals. We regularly monitor the effectiveness of our controls and take action to improve our processes where needed.

This statement is reviewed at least once every twelve months to ensure it remains accurate, up to date and reflective of our current practices, risk assessments and legal obligations. As part of the review, we consider changes in our operations, updates to legislation, feedback from audits and any incidents or concerns reported.

Following each annual review, any necessary improvements to our policies, procedures, training or supplier requirements will be implemented promptly. This statement demonstrates our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and protecting the rights and dignity of all people who work for and with Barnes Removals.