Modern Slavery Statement
Our modern slavery statement reflects a clear commitment to preventing exploitation in every part of our operations and supply chain. We recognise that modern slavery can include slavery, servitude, forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, and other forms of abuse. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward all such practices and expect the same standards from everyone who works with us. This policy applies to employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers at every level.
Our approach is built on respect for human rights, lawful employment, and ethical business conduct. We do not accept any arrangement that hides coercion, restricts freedom, or exploits vulnerability. To support this position, our modern slavery policy is embedded into recruitment, procurement, and governance processes. We also provide training so that relevant teams can identify warning signs and respond appropriately. Prevention is our priority, and we use a risk-based approach to focus on higher-risk activities and geographies.
This statement applies to our business activities and our wider supplier base. We require suppliers to comply with all applicable labour laws and to uphold internationally recognised labour standards. Our contracts include provisions that allow us to investigate concerns, request evidence, and take corrective action where necessary. Non-compliance may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Supplier oversight is strengthened through regular due diligence and supplier audits. These audits may be announced or unannounced, depending on the level of risk. During a modern slavery audit, we review working conditions, wage practices, recruitment methods, document retention, and workers’ freedom to leave employment. Where issues are identified, suppliers must implement corrective actions within agreed timelines. If concerns remain unresolved, we escalate the matter through senior management and, where appropriate, disengage from the supplier.
We also expect suppliers to pass on equivalent standards to their own subcontractors and labour providers. This means a slavery statement is not effective unless it is supported by genuine operational controls. Our procurement teams consider ethical performance alongside quality, cost, and delivery. A supplier that cannot demonstrate responsible labour practices will not meet our approval criteria. We seek long-term partnerships with organisations that share our values and can evidence continuous improvement.
All workers, whether internal or external, must have safe and accessible ways to raise concerns. Our reporting channels allow issues to be raised confidentially and without fear of retaliation. Reports may relate to recruitment fees, withheld wages, identity document retention, unsafe accommodation, excessive working hours, or threats and intimidation. We treat every report seriously and investigate promptly. Whistleblowing protections are in place to support good-faith reporting and to protect individuals from victimisation.
We recognise that modern slavery risks can evolve over time. For that reason, this modern slavery and human trafficking statement is reviewed annually and updated when necessary. The annual review considers changes in legislation, supplier performance, audit findings, grievance data, and emerging sector risks. Lessons learned are used to improve our controls, strengthen due diligence, and refine training content. Senior leadership is responsible for ensuring that action plans are completed and monitored.
Our governance framework assigns accountability across procurement, operations, human resources, and compliance functions. These teams work together to embed safeguards into day-to-day decision-making. We document findings, track remediation, and measure progress against key risk indicators. If a risk of modern slavery is suspected, we act immediately to protect affected individuals and prevent further harm. Our goal is not only compliance, but meaningful protection of people’s rights and dignity.
In conclusion, our modern slavery statement confirms a practical and ongoing commitment to ethical business conduct. Through our zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, effective reporting channels, and annual review process, we aim to reduce risk and support responsible trade. We will continue to strengthen our controls, listen to concerns, and act decisively where abuse is found. This statement represents our current position and our determination to improve it year by year.
