Paddington Removals Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Paddington Removals in respect of the financial year just ended. It outlines the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Paddington Removals is committed to conducting business in an ethical and responsible manner, respecting the dignity and human rights of every person who works for or with us.

Modern slavery is a serious crime and a gross violation of fundamental human rights. It can take many forms, including forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, debt bondage and child labour. Paddington Removals recognises that businesses of all sizes can be exposed to the risk of modern slavery both directly and indirectly, and we are determined to identify, mitigate and, where possible, eliminate those risks.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Paddington Removals operates in the removals and relocation sector, providing residential and commercial moving, packing, storage and related services. Our workforce includes directly employed staff and, where necessary, vetted subcontractors. Our supply chains include providers of vehicles, fuel, equipment, packaging materials, storage facilities, technology solutions and other professional services that support our operations.

We recognise that some parts of the logistics, transport and warehousing sectors may be more vulnerable to modern slavery risks, particularly where low-skilled or temporary labour is involved. We therefore aim to work with reputable suppliers who share our values and can demonstrate adherence to robust labour standards.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

Paddington Removals has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not and will not knowingly engage with any organisation that is involved in, or turns a blind eye to, exploitative labour practices. This commitment extends to our employees, subcontractors, suppliers and any other third parties acting on our behalf.

Our zero-tolerance stance is reflected in our internal policies, contractual terms and our approach to supplier selection, onboarding and ongoing management. We expect everyone who works with us to uphold the same high standards. Any breach or suspected breach of our anti-slavery requirements will be treated seriously and may result in the termination of contracts or working relationships, as well as reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

To reduce the risk of modern slavery in our supply chains, we conduct proportionate due diligence on existing and prospective suppliers. This may include assessing the nature of their operations, reviewing the locations in which they operate, evaluating their labour practices and asking for confirmation of their own modern slavery and ethical employment policies.

Paddington Removals reserves the right to carry out audits or inspections of suppliers where we consider it necessary to verify compliance with our standards. These audits may be conducted directly by us or by independent third parties. Where non-compliance or areas of concern are identified, we will work with the supplier to develop and implement corrective action plans within an agreed timeframe. If satisfactory improvements are not made, we may suspend or end the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage all employees, subcontractors, suppliers and other stakeholders to report any concerns about modern slavery, human trafficking or unethical labour practices connected with Paddington Removals or our supply chains. Concerns may include signs of coercion, restriction of movement, withholding of identity documents, unsafe working conditions, excessive working hours or any other potential indicators of exploitation.

Reports can be made confidentially to designated managers within the business or through existing internal reporting mechanisms. We are committed to handling all concerns sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. No person will suffer detrimental treatment for raising a concern in good faith. All reports will be investigated promptly and appropriate remedial action will be taken where issues are substantiated.

Training, Awareness and Responsibilities

Paddington Removals is working to increase awareness of modern slavery risks among key staff, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment and managing subcontractors. Responsible managers are expected to understand the potential warning signs and to act swiftly if concerns arise. As our approach evolves, we will aim to integrate modern slavery awareness into relevant training and induction processes.

Overall responsibility for this Modern Slavery Statement and the effectiveness of related policies rests with the senior management of Paddington Removals. They are responsible for ensuring that adequate resources are allocated and that our commitments are embedded in day-to-day business practices.

Monitoring, Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

Paddington Removals recognises that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires regular monitoring and improvement. We will review this Modern Slavery Statement annually to assess the effectiveness of our actions, to reflect changes in legislation or best practice and to capture lessons learned from our own experience.

As part of the annual review, we will consider feedback from employees and suppliers, findings from any audits or investigations and developments in our risk profile. Where appropriate, we will update our policies, procedures and training to strengthen our safeguards. This statement has been approved by the management of Paddington Removals, who are committed to ensuring that it is implemented across the business and communicated to relevant stakeholders.