Modern Slavery Statement for Merton Removals

Merton Removals is committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitative practices within our operations and supply chains. As a responsible removals company, we recognise that vigilance is essential across every stage of service delivery, from planning and packing to transport and storage. Our zero-tolerance policy applies to all forms of modern slavery and to every individual and organisation acting on our behalf.

We expect the same high standards from our employees, subcontractors, agency workers, and suppliers. Any breach of our standards may result in contract termination, removal from approved status, or further action where appropriate. We are committed to ensuring that our Merton Removals modern slavery policy is understood and upheld throughout the business. This statement reflects our ongoing commitment to ethical business practices and supports our wider responsibilities under relevant legislation.

Our approach begins with clear governance and due diligence. We assess risk based on factors such as geography, labour use, working conditions, and the nature of the goods and services we procure. Supplier audits are an important part of this process. Where appropriate, we review labour practices, right-to-work checks, subcontracting arrangements, wage records, and evidence of safe working conditions. These checks help us identify concerns early and take proportionate action.

Responsibilities Across the Business

All managers are responsible for embedding this statement into daily operations and ensuring that the people they oversee understand the signs of exploitation. Training and awareness are used to help staff recognise indicators such as unusual control over workers, restricted movement, withheld pay, or signs that someone may not be acting freely. We encourage a culture in which concerns are raised promptly and handled seriously. The Merton Removals slavery statement is not a one-time document; it is a living commitment supported by practical action.

We also apply scrutiny to our supply chain relationships. Before engaging suppliers, we seek assurance that they share our ethical standards and operate lawfully. Where concerns are identified, we may request corrective action, conduct follow-up reviews, or suspend engagement until issues are resolved. For higher-risk suppliers, additional checks may be used to verify compliance. This helps us reduce exposure to modern slavery risks while maintaining accountable partnerships.

Our reporting channels are designed to make speaking up safe and straightforward. Employees and others connected to our business may report concerns about modern slavery, labour abuse, or unsafe practices through internal management routes or formal whistleblowing procedures. Reports are treated confidentially where possible and investigated without delay. We make it clear that retaliation against anyone raising a genuine concern will not be tolerated. This is a vital part of maintaining trust and supporting ethical removals operations.

Monitoring, Improvement, and Review

The effectiveness of this statement depends on ongoing monitoring, not assumptions. We record concerns, audit outcomes, and remediation actions to identify trends and strengthen our controls. Where lessons are learned, we update processes accordingly. Modern slavery risks may change over time, and our controls must evolve with them. By reviewing our practices regularly, we aim to uphold responsible standards throughout our removal services and related supply arrangements.

We are committed to an annual review of this statement and the measures that support it. Each year, we assess whether our policies remain suitable, whether supplier audits are effective, and whether reporting channels are accessible and trusted. The review also considers any changes in law, business structure, or risk profile. This annual cycle ensures that our Merton Removals modern slavery commitment remains current, practical, and accountable.

Merton Removals understands that preventing modern slavery requires shared responsibility, diligence, and continuous improvement. By maintaining a zero-tolerance policy, carrying out supplier audits, providing clear reporting channels, and completing an annual review, we strengthen our ability to detect and prevent exploitation. We will continue to work in a way that protects human dignity and supports ethical standards across our business and supply chain.