Highgate Removals Modern Slavery Statement 2024
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Highgate Removals in respect of the financial year ending 2024. It sets out the steps we are taking to identify, prevent, and address the risks of modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Highgate Removals is firmly committed to conducting business in an ethical and responsible manner. We have a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, servitude, child labour, and all forms of exploitation. This commitment applies to every aspect of our activities, including our own workforce and the way we engage with suppliers, subcontractors, and other business partners.
All directors, managers, employees, agency staff, and contractors are required to uphold this policy and to act in a way that supports human rights, fair treatment, and safe working conditions. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in disciplinary or contractual action.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Highgate Removals provides residential and commercial removals, packing, storage, and associated logistics services. Our operations rely on a diverse supply chain, including vehicle suppliers, fuel providers, equipment and packaging manufacturers, storage facilities, recruitment agencies, and other service providers.
We recognise that certain areas of the removals and logistics sector can be vulnerable to labour exploitation, particularly where temporary labour, subcontracted services, or cross-border transport are involved. We are committed to understanding and managing these risks in a proactive and proportionate way.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to share our commitment to eradicating modern slavery. Suppliers are required to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws and to maintain policies and procedures that prevent forced or trafficked labour in their own operations and supply chains.
As part of our due diligence, we conduct risk-based assessments of new and existing suppliers. This may include written questionnaires, declarations regarding compliance with modern slavery legislation, and requests for supporting documentation such as employment policies or evidence of right-to-work checks.
Where we identify higher-risk suppliers or activities, we may undertake more detailed audits. These audits can involve site visits, interviews with management and workers, and reviews of recruitment and payroll practices. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to address concerns related to modern slavery, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Highgate Removals encourages everyone connected to our business, including employees, agency staff, contractors, suppliers, and their workers, to report any suspicion or concern related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices.
Concerns can be raised internally with line managers or senior management. Individuals are also encouraged to make use of any whistleblowing or grievance channels made available by their employer or labour provider. We treat all reports seriously and sensitively, and we will not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith.
Where appropriate, we will work with the relevant authorities and specialist organisations to investigate and address any credible allegations of modern slavery linked to our business or supply chains.
Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement
We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff and key suppliers. Personnel involved in procurement, recruitment, and contract management receive guidance on identifying warning signs of exploitation and on the actions to take if concerns arise.
We continually review our processes to strengthen controls around recruitment, onboarding, right-to-work checks, and supplier selection. Our aim is to embed respect for human rights into our everyday decision-making and commercial relationships.
Monitoring and Annual Review
This statement and the underlying policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the senior management of Highgate Removals. The review considers changes in legislation, emerging risks, feedback from stakeholders, and the effectiveness of our due diligence measures.
We are committed to improving our approach over time, increasing transparency in our supply chains, and taking appropriate action wherever we identify risks or instances of modern slavery. This statement has been approved by the leadership of Highgate Removals and will be updated each year to reflect our ongoing efforts and progress.
