Modern Slavery Statement for Barnes Removals

Barnes Removals is committed to conducting business with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that the removals and logistics sector can involve multiple subcontractors, temporary labour, and third-party services, which means vigilance is essential. Our approach is built on a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of slavery or abuse.

As a responsible removals company, Barnes Removals expects the same ethical standards from employees, suppliers, and partners. We are committed to ensuring that people working on our behalf are treated fairly, paid lawfully, and protected from coercion. This statement reflects our ongoing responsibility to identify and address risks associated with slavery and human trafficking across our business activities.

Our internal policies are designed to support compliance and accountability. All staff are expected to follow our code of conduct, which includes requirements around lawful recruitment, fair treatment, and respect in the workplace. We do not tolerate intimidation, withheld wages, document retention, debt bondage, or any practice that may indicate modern slavery in supply chains. Where needed, training is provided so employees can recognise warning signs and understand how to respond appropriately.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

The Barnes Removals modern slavery statement also applies to our supply chain management. We seek to work with suppliers who share our values and can demonstrate ethical labour practices. Before onboarding new suppliers, we assess their background, reputation, and policy commitments. This includes reviewing whether they have their own anti-slavery controls and whether they use responsible recruitment methods.

Supplier monitoring does not end at onboarding. We carry out supplier audits and periodic reviews, proportionate to the level of risk presented by the service or product. Where concerns arise, we may request further information, corrective action plans, or supporting documentation. If a supplier cannot meet our standards, we reserve the right to suspend or end the relationship. This risk-based approach helps us strengthen oversight of ethical sourcing and reduce vulnerability to exploitation.

We also look carefully at labour arrangements used by subcontractors, agency workers, and external service providers. In the removals industry, this is especially important where work may be seasonal, short-term, or carried out at short notice. By maintaining clear expectations and checking compliance, Barnes Removals aims to ensure that no part of our business supports abusive labour practices.

Reporting Channels and Response

Anyone connected with Barnes Removals who suspects modern slavery, trafficking, or exploitation is encouraged to report it immediately through the appropriate internal route. Reports may be made to a manager, a senior leader, or through our internal escalation process. All concerns are taken seriously and handled confidentially where possible. We support a culture in which people can speak up without fear of retaliation, victimisation, or disadvantage.

Where a report raises credible concerns, we will investigate promptly and take proportionate action. This may include safeguarding affected individuals, reviewing supplier relationships, notifying relevant authorities, and strengthening controls to prevent recurrence. Our commitment to zero tolerance for modern slavery means we will not ignore warning signs or allow business pressures to weaken our standards. We expect managers to act decisively and responsibly when issues are identified.

We encourage openness across all levels of the business so that concerns can surface early. Any allegation relating to forced labour, deceptive recruitment, or exploitative working conditions will be treated as serious. Barnes Removals recognises that effective reporting channels are a vital safeguard, helping us protect vulnerable workers and maintain trust in our operations.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant, effective, and aligned with current legislation and best practice. The review process considers any changes in our operations, the nature of our supply chain, findings from supplier audits, and reports received through our internal channels. We use this process to identify areas for improvement and to update our policies where needed.

Our Ongoing Commitment

Through this Barnes Removals modern slavery policy, we reaffirm that respect for human dignity is central to how we operate. We will continue to improve our controls, challenge poor practices, and uphold our responsibility to prevent any form of slavery or exploitation in everything we do.