Modern Slavery Statement for Merton Removals

At Merton Removals, we are committed to conducting our business with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent slavery, servitude, forced labour, and human trafficking in any part of our operations. We recognise that the removals industry can involve extended supply chains, temporary labour, and subcontracted services, which makes vigilance essential. Our approach is built on a zero-tolerance stance toward any form of exploitation.

We expect everyone working with or for Merton Removals to uphold the highest ethical standards. This includes employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers. We require all parties to act lawfully, treat people fairly, and comply with our policies on labour rights and business conduct. Any breach of these expectations is taken seriously and may result in termination of a working relationship.

Our removals modern slavery statement is supported by practical controls designed to reduce risk. Before engaging new suppliers, we carry out appropriate due diligence to understand their labour practices, ownership structure, and compliance history. Existing suppliers are assessed on an ongoing basis, with increased scrutiny for higher-risk categories such as transport, logistics, cleaning, and outsourced labour support.

Supplier Oversight and Risk Management

Supplier audits are a key part of our prevention strategy. We conduct supplier audits and reviews to confirm that partners are meeting our ethical requirements and to identify warning signs such as withheld wages, excessive working hours, passport retention, or unsafe living conditions. Where concerns arise, we require corrective action and may suspend or end the relationship if standards are not improved. Our aim is not only compliance, but also active prevention of harm.

Training and awareness are also important. Managers involved in procurement, recruitment, and site operations are expected to understand indicators of exploitation and to respond appropriately. We promote a culture in which people can challenge poor practice without fear. Modern slavery risks are considered during onboarding, supplier selection, and periodic review, ensuring that ethical standards remain part of everyday decision-making.

We also recognise that risk can change over time. Economic pressure, seasonal demand, and labour shortages can create conditions in which vulnerable workers are more exposed to abuse. For that reason, our Merton Removals slavery statement is not a static document; it informs our ongoing controls and reinforces our responsibility to stay alert to emerging risks across the business and supply chain.

Reporting Channels, Investigation, and Accountability

Anyone who suspects misconduct is encouraged to speak up through our internal reporting channels. Reports may be made to line management, senior leadership, or designated safeguarding contacts. We also encourage workers and suppliers to raise concerns about any behaviour that may indicate forced labour, human trafficking, coercion, or intimidation. All concerns are handled seriously, promptly, and confidentially where possible, with protection from retaliation for those who report in good faith.

When a concern is raised, we investigate in a structured and proportionate manner. This may involve reviewing records, speaking with relevant personnel, and checking supplier arrangements. If an issue is confirmed, we take decisive action, which may include remediation plans, additional monitoring, suspension, or ending the relationship. Our commitment to a zero-tolerance policy means that exploitation is never accepted as a cost of doing business.

We maintain accountability through clear internal responsibility. Leadership oversees our response to modern slavery risk, ensuring that prevention measures are implemented and that lessons learned are shared across the organisation. The effectiveness of our controls depends on consistency, diligence, and a willingness to act when standards are not met.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

We will review this Merton Removals modern slavery statement annually to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and effective. The review will consider supplier audit findings, any reported concerns, changes in legislation, and developments in our operating model. Where appropriate, we will strengthen our procedures, refresh training, and update supplier requirements to reflect improved practice.

By reviewing progress each year, we aim to maintain a proactive approach rather than a purely reactive one. Our goal is to support ethical work, protect vulnerable people, and uphold responsible business conduct throughout our operations and supply chain. This statement reflects our continuing commitment to preventing modern slavery in all its forms.