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Modern slavery statement 2022

This statement is made in accordance with the provisions of the UK Modern Slavery Act.

Modern slavery statements

We recognise that modern slavery is a global issue, and we are committed to playing our part in supporting its eradication. We have been making an annual Modern Slavery Statement since 2017 and these documents outline the steps we take as a business to prevent slavery and human trafficking in our own operations and supply chain.

Modern Slavery Statement 2022 (PDF 2.3MB)

What does modern slavery mean?

Modern slavery is the illegal exploitation of other people for personal or commercial gain.

What are the signs of modern slavery and what does modern slavery mean?

Modern slavery definition: “where one person controls another for profit by exploiting a vulnerability”.

Often a victim is forced to work for little or no payment. The control traffickers hold can be physical, financial, or psychological.

What’s our approach to modern slavery?

We’re proud we do business responsibly and ethically. Our Supplier Code of Conduct, contract terms and governance safeguard relationships between us and our suppliers. We set standards to ensure they operate ethically, are environmentally responsible and workers are treated with respect and dignity.

For many years, we have had methods of due diligence in place, such as supplier questionnaires and clauses within supplier and partner contracts, which ensure compliance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015.

What are the types of modern slavery?

Modern slavery takes many forms. The 4 types of modern slavery that are most common are:

  • Human trafficking. The use of violence, threats or coercion to transport, recruit or harbour people in order to exploit them for purposes such as forced prostitution, labour, criminality, marriage or organ removal.
  • Forced labour. Any work or services people are forced to do against their will under threat of punishment.
  • Debt bondage/bonded labour. The world’s most widespread form of slavery. People trapped in poverty borrow money and are forced to work to pay off the debt, losing control over both their employment conditions and the debt.
  • Descent–based slavery. Where people are treated as property, and their “slave” status was passed down the maternal line.