Westminster Removals Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Westminster Removals in relation to 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. 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 is not taking place.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Westminster Removals provides residential and commercial removals, storage, and associated transportation services. Our operations rely on a range of suppliers, including vehicle and equipment providers, storage facilities, packaging material manufacturers, and labour and logistics partners. We recognise that elements of our supply chain, particularly those involving manual labour, transport and warehousing, may be at higher risk of labour exploitation if not managed responsibly.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, child labour, and debt bondage. This policy applies to all Westminster Removals employees, contractors, agency staff, and any individual or organisation acting on our behalf. We expect the same high standards from all our suppliers and business partners and will not knowingly work with any party that engages in, or is complicit in, modern slavery or human trafficking.
Our zero-tolerance approach means that any suspected breach will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and may result in the termination of contracts or working relationships, in addition to notification of relevant authorities where appropriate.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We are strengthening our supplier due diligence processes to identify and mitigate the risk of modern slavery in our supply chains. As part of this process, we are implementing measures that include the following steps. We assess new and existing suppliers for modern slavery risks, taking into account sector, geography, and the nature of the goods or services supplied. We require key suppliers to confirm that they comply with all applicable labour and human rights laws and do not engage in modern slavery or human trafficking.
Where appropriate and proportionate to the level of risk, we conduct supplier audits, which may include site visits, document reviews, and discussions with management and workers. These audits are designed to verify labour practices, working conditions, recruitment methods, and the use of subcontractors. If non-compliance or areas of concern are identified, we will work with suppliers to develop corrective action plans and set clear timescales for improvement. Persistent or serious breaches may lead to suspension or termination of the relationship.
Training, Awareness, and Reporting Channels
We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our workforce. Relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, operations, and site management, are being provided with training to help them identify indicators of modern slavery and understand how to respond to concerns.
Westminster Removals encourages all employees, contractors, and suppliers to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery at the earliest possible stage. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting routes, including direct reporting to line managers or senior management. Reports can be made confidentially and will be treated sensitively. No one who raises a concern in good faith will suffer any form of retaliation or detrimental treatment.
Governance, Accountability, and Annual Review
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with senior management, who are accountable for ensuring that appropriate policies, procedures, and controls are implemented and maintained. Departmental managers are responsible for embedding these requirements in day-to-day operations and for monitoring compliance within their teams.
This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least annually to assess the effectiveness of our measures and to identify opportunities for improvement. As our business and supply chains evolve, we will continue to refine our risk assessments, supplier engagement, and training programmes. Any significant changes to our approach, or key findings from supplier audits, will be reflected in future versions of this Statement.
By publishing this Statement, Westminster Removals reaffirms its commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking within our business and supply chains, and to working collaboratively with employees, suppliers, and partners to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct.