Modern Slavery Statement
Watford Movers Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Watford Movers in respect of the financial year ending 31 December and sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains. Watford Movers operates in the removals and relocation sector and recognises its responsibility to act ethically, transparently, and with integrity in all business relationships.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
Watford Movers has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, servitude, and child labour. We are committed to ensuring that our operations and supply chains are free from any practices that infringe upon the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals. This commitment applies to all aspects of our activities, including recruitment, employment, procurement, and subcontracting.
All directors, managers, employees, and contractors are required to act in line with this policy. We expect the same high standards from all third parties with whom we work and will not knowingly engage with any organisation or individual that is involved in, or complicit with, modern slavery in any form.
Our Supply Chains and Supplier Standards
Our supply chains include providers of vehicles, fuel, equipment, packaging materials, storage facilities, information technology, facilities management, and labour agencies. We recognise that some of these areas may present higher risks of labour exploitation and we seek to manage these risks proactively.
Watford Movers requires all suppliers and subcontractors to comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. We expect suppliers to uphold safe working conditions, fair wages, voluntary employment, and non-discriminatory practices. Our contractual arrangements, where appropriate, include clauses requiring compliance with anti-slavery and human trafficking legislation, and we reserve the right to terminate relationships where serious or persistent breaches occur.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We operate a risk-based due diligence process for selecting and reviewing suppliers. This process considers the nature of the goods or services provided, country or regional risk, and the use of any temporary or migrant labour. Higher-risk suppliers may be subject to enhanced scrutiny and more frequent review.
Watford Movers carries out periodic audits and assessments of key suppliers and contractors. These may include reviewing policies, requesting supporting documentation, and, where proportionate and practical, conducting site visits. Where potential issues are identified, we work with the supplier to develop corrective action plans. If a supplier fails to demonstrate adequate improvements within an agreed timeframe, we may suspend or cease the business relationship.
Training and Awareness
We provide guidance and awareness-raising for relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and contract management. This includes information on the signs of modern slavery, how to escalate concerns, and the responsibilities of staff in supporting our zero-tolerance stance.
Watford Movers is committed to continually improving employee awareness so that risks are recognised early and addressed effectively. New starters in key roles are briefed on our modern slavery policy as part of their induction.
Reporting Concerns and Protection
We encourage employees, workers, contractors, and any other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery in our business or supply chains. Concerns may be raised to line managers, senior management, or through existing internal reporting channels. Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated appropriately.
Watford Movers is committed to ensuring that no individual who raises a genuine concern in good faith suffers any form of retaliation or detrimental treatment as a result of speaking up. Anyone found to be victimising or retaliating against a person who has raised a concern will be subject to disciplinary action, which may include dismissal.
Governance, Accountability, and Annual Review
Overall responsibility for our response to modern slavery risks rests with the senior management team of Watford Movers. Management is accountable for implementing this statement, monitoring compliance, and ensuring that appropriate resources are allocated to support our commitments.
We will review this Modern Slavery Statement at least once every year, and more frequently if required by changes in our business, supply chains, or legislation. The review will consider the effectiveness of our actions, any incidents or concerns raised, audit outcomes, and opportunities for improvement.
Following each annual review, Watford Movers will update this statement where necessary to reflect our ongoing efforts and evolving best practice in the fight against modern slavery and human trafficking.
