Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Removal Companies Merton is committed to conducting all aspects of its business in an ethical and responsible manner. We recognise our duty to help prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. This statement sets out the steps we take, and will continue to take, to identify, prevent, and address modern slavery risks in relation to our removals and associated services.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

We operate a clear zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. Any form of forced, compulsory, or child labour, as well as servitude or labour obtained through coercion, deception, or abuse of vulnerability, is strictly prohibited within our business and supply chains. We expect the same high standards from all parties with whom we work, including suppliers, subcontractors, and business partners. Where we identify any breach or credible risk, we will take prompt and proportionate action, which may include suspension or termination of commercial relationships.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Removal Companies Merton provides residential and commercial removals, packing, storage, and related logistical services. Our supply chains include providers of vehicles, fuel, packaging materials, equipment, storage facilities, and certain specialist subcontractors. We recognise that some sectors and geographic regions may present higher risks of labour exploitation, and we pay particular attention to these areas when selecting and managing suppliers.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We are committed to working only with suppliers and subcontractors that share our ethical values. As part of our onboarding and ongoing management processes, we:

Evaluate new suppliers against compliance with labour, human rights, and modern slavery requirements, including confirmation that workers are employed voluntarily, paid fairly, and have freedom of movement and association.

Reserve the right to conduct audits or request evidence of compliance, which may include site visits, documented policies, workforce records, and proof of right-to-work checks. Where on-site audits are not practical, we seek alternative means of verification, such as questionnaires and declarations.

Review performance and conduct periodic reassessments of higher-risk suppliers, focusing on recruitment practices, use of labour agencies, and working conditions. Suppliers found to be non-compliant may be required to implement corrective action plans within defined timeframes.

Policies, Training, and Employee Responsibilities

Our internal policies, including those relating to recruitment, health and safety, conduct at work, and whistleblowing, are designed to minimise the risk of exploitation and to promote fair treatment. We conduct right-to-work and identity checks on all employees and avoid using recruitment practices that may increase vulnerability to modern slavery, such as unreasonable recruitment fees or withholding of personal documents.

Employees whose roles involve procurement, supplier management, or supervision of workers receive guidance to help them recognise indicators of modern slavery and understand our reporting expectations. All staff are reminded that everyone has a responsibility to raise concerns about potential exploitation, whether within our business or in the wider supply chain.

Reporting Channels and Raising Concerns

We encourage employees, suppliers, subcontractors, and any other stakeholders to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery or human trafficking. Concerns can be raised directly with a line manager, a senior manager, or through our established internal reporting routes. Reports may be made confidentially, and we do not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith.

All reports are treated seriously and investigated promptly. Where appropriate, we will work with relevant authorities and specialist organisations to ensure the safety of affected individuals and to address any confirmed instances of exploitation.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that the risks and methods associated with modern slavery evolve over time. We therefore commit to reviewing and updating this statement, and our associated procedures, on at least an annual basis, or more frequently if required by significant changes in our operations or risk profile.

As part of this annual review, we assess the effectiveness of our due diligence, audit findings, training outcomes, and any incidents or concerns reported. We use these insights to strengthen our processes, enhance awareness, and refine the standards we apply to our own operations and those of our suppliers.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement reflects the ongoing commitment of Removal Companies Merton to act ethically, to respect human rights, and to play an active role in preventing exploitation in our industry.