Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Barnes Removals in respect of our activities for the current financial year. It sets out the steps we are taking to identify, prevent, and address modern slavery and human trafficking risks within our operations and supply chains. Barnes Removals recognises its responsibility to uphold human rights and to ensure that everyone who works for or with us is treated with dignity and respect.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Barnes Removals operates in the removals, storage, and associated logistics sector. Our activities rely on a range of suppliers and contractors, including vehicle and equipment providers, packaging material suppliers, facilities management services, recruitment and labour agencies, and professional advisers. We understand that modern slavery can occur at any point in a supply chain and we are committed to conducting our business in a way that minimises this risk.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We have a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, servitude, and human trafficking. This means we will not knowingly engage with any organisation or individual involved in such practices. Our expectation is that all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers share this commitment and act in a way that is consistent with our values and legal obligations.

Any confirmed breach of this policy by an employee will be treated as a serious disciplinary matter, which may lead to dismissal. Any supplier, contractor, or business partner found to be involved in modern slavery, or unwilling to take appropriate steps to address identified concerns, may have their relationship with Barnes Removals suspended or terminated.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We are committed to improving transparency and accountability throughout our supply chains. As part of this commitment, we are developing and refining due diligence procedures for both new and existing suppliers. These procedures may include formal questionnaires, declarations of compliance with anti-slavery laws, and requests for supporting documentation relating to labour practices and working conditions.

Where we consider the risk of modern slavery to be higher, we may conduct targeted audits of suppliers. These audits may be undertaken by internal personnel or by independent third parties. The focus of such audits will include recruitment practices, working hours, wages and benefits, use of subcontractors, and evidence of policies to prevent exploitation. Any issues identified will be addressed through corrective action plans and, where necessary, closer ongoing monitoring.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

Barnes Removals encourages a culture of openness where concerns about modern slavery can be raised without fear of retaliation. All employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to report any suspicions or knowledge of modern slavery connected to our operations or supply chains.

Concerns can be raised directly with line managers, senior management, or through established internal reporting processes. Reports may be made anonymously where permitted by local laws. All reports will be taken seriously, promptly reviewed, and investigated where appropriate. We will protect anyone who raises a concern in good faith from adverse treatment or victimisation.

Training and Awareness

We are working to increase awareness of modern slavery risks among our workforce and key suppliers. Relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and contract management, are provided with guidance to help them recognise warning signs of exploitation and respond appropriately.

Training content covers the nature of modern slavery, potential risk factors in the removals and logistics sector, and the internal procedures for reporting concerns. We will continue to review and update this training to reflect evolving risks and best practice.

Monitoring, Governance and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery strategy sits with the senior management of Barnes Removals. They are responsible for ensuring that appropriate policies, procedures, and controls are in place and for monitoring their effectiveness.

This Statement and the measures described in it will be reviewed at least annually. The review will consider any incidents reported, audit findings, changes in our business operations, and developments in law and best practice. Where necessary, we will update our policies and procedures and set new objectives for improving our approach.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement has been approved by the leadership of Barnes Removals and reflects our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery in all its forms across our business and supply chains.