Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Policy
This policy follows the recommended subject areas in UK government guidance. It is a draft framework and must be completed with the company's actual legal name, processes and director approval before publication.
Our Commitment
[INSERT LEGAL COMPANY NAME] is committed to conducting business ethically and responsibly. We do not tolerate slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, child labour or human trafficking within our own operations or supply chains.
We recognise that modern slavery can occur in many forms and may be hidden within complex supply chains. We are committed to taking proportionate steps to identify risks, set clear expectations and respond appropriately where concerns arise.
Our Business
[INSERT LEGAL COMPANY NAME / TRADING NAMES] supplies furniture, interiors, accessories and related installation services to developers, housebuilders, investors, landlords and other property clients in the United Kingdom. Our supply chain may include furniture manufacturers, importers, wholesalers, appliance suppliers, textile and accessory suppliers, logistics providers, installers and professional service partners.
Our Expectations of Suppliers and Partners
We expect suppliers and business partners to:
- Comply with all applicable laws relating to employment, labour rights, modern slavery and human trafficking
- Prohibit forced, bonded, trafficked or involuntary labour
- Prohibit unlawful child labour
- Provide safe and lawful working conditions
- Pay workers in accordance with applicable wage and working-time requirements
- Maintain appropriate records and provide relevant information when reasonably requested
- Raise concerns promptly if modern slavery risks or incidents are identified
Due Diligence and Risk Assessment
Our approach is proportionate to the size and nature of our business and the level of risk. Depending on the supplier, product category and country of origin, our checks may include obtaining company information, reviewing supplier policies or statements, asking questions about manufacturing locations and labour standards, considering publicly available information and seeking clarification where concerns arise.
Higher-risk concerns may result in further enquiries, corrective action requirements, suspension of orders or termination of the business relationship where appropriate and lawful.
Recruitment and Employment
We are committed to fair recruitment and lawful employment practices within our own business. We do not knowingly use forced labour or require workers to surrender identity documents or pay recruitment fees as a condition of employment. Right-to-work and employment checks are completed in accordance with applicable law.
Reporting Concerns
Employees, contractors, suppliers and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any concern relating to modern slavery or human trafficking. Concerns may be raised with [INSERT RESPONSIBLE PERSON / JOB TITLE] by emailing [INSERT EMAIL ADDRESS] or calling [INSERT TELEPHONE NUMBER].
Reports will be treated seriously and handled as sensitively as possible. No person should suffer retaliation for raising a genuine concern in good faith.
Training and Awareness
We aim to ensure that relevant team members understand the signs of modern slavery and know how to report concerns. Additional guidance or training may be provided to employees involved in procurement, supplier management, recruitment or operations where appropriate.
Monitoring and Review
We will review this policy periodically and update our processes as the business, supply chain and relevant guidance develop.
Approval
This policy was approved by [INSERT BOARD / DIRECTOR / RESPONSIBLE PERSON] on [INSERT DATE].
Signed: [INSERT NAME] — Position: [INSERT JOB TITLE] — For and on behalf of: [INSERT LEGAL COMPANY NAME] — Financial year or review period: [INSERT PERIOD]
