Modern Slavery Statement
Modern slavery is a serious violation of human rights, and we are committed to preventing it in every part of our operations. This modern slavery statement sets out the principles and controls that guide our approach to ethical conduct, fair treatment, and responsible business practices. We recognise that slavery, servitude, forced labour, and human trafficking can occur in complex supply chains, and we take a zero-tolerance position toward any form of exploitation. Our commitment applies to all employees, contractors, suppliers, and business partners, regardless of location or role.
We expect every person acting on our behalf to uphold the same standards. This means respecting human rights, following labour laws, and ensuring that all work is freely chosen. We do not accept any practice that restricts personal freedom, withholds documents, uses threats, or imposes unfair recruitment fees. Our modern slavery commitment is embedded in policies, procurement decisions, and ongoing oversight, so that ethical conduct is not treated as an optional extra but as a core business requirement.
To support this approach, we conduct due diligence on suppliers and service providers before entering into agreements and during the life of the relationship. Where appropriate, we carry out supplier audits to assess labour conditions, recruitment practices, wage records, and management controls. These audits may include document reviews, site visits, and interviews with workers and managers. If risks are identified, we require corrective action within clear timeframes and may suspend or end the relationship if concerns are not resolved.
Our procurement teams are trained to identify warning signs such as unusual labour arrangements, excessive recruitment charges, restricted movement, or inconsistent employment records. We also encourage open dialogue with suppliers so that issues can be addressed early. The aim of our anti-slavery policy is not only to detect non-compliance but to strengthen prevention through better oversight, stronger contractual terms, and responsible sourcing. Every supplier is expected to confirm compliance with our ethical standards and to cooperate with verification requests.
We provide accessible reporting channels so that employees and third parties can raise concerns about modern slavery safely and without fear of retaliation. Reports may be made confidentially, and all concerns are reviewed promptly by the relevant internal teams. We take every report seriously, investigate proportionately, and act where necessary to protect individuals and improve controls. Retaliation against anyone who speaks up is strictly prohibited, and disciplinary action may follow if this rule is breached.
Awareness and training are central to our prevention efforts. Relevant employees receive guidance on recognising indicators of exploitation, understanding escalation routes, and applying ethical procurement standards. Senior leaders are responsible for ensuring that the modern slavery program remains effective, adequately resourced, and aligned with business risk. We also expect managers to reinforce a culture in which dignity, transparency, and accountability are maintained at all times.
This statement is reviewed annually to confirm that it remains current, relevant, and effective. The review considers changes in legislation, emerging risks, audit findings, reported concerns, and improvements in supply chain controls. Where needed, we update policies, strengthen due diligence measures, and refine training so that our modern slavery statement continues to reflect best practice. Annual review is essential to ensure that commitments are translated into action rather than remaining purely aspirational.
We also monitor the effectiveness of our controls by assessing supplier performance, tracking corrective actions, and reviewing the resolution of concerns raised through reporting channels. If a risk of exploitation is identified, we respond promptly and proportionately, prioritising the safety and rights of workers. Our zero-tolerance policy means that credible evidence of slavery-related conduct will be taken extremely seriously and may result in contract termination and other appropriate remedies.
Through continued vigilance, supplier engagement, and regular review, we aim to reduce the risk of modern slavery within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that responsible business conduct requires persistence, scrutiny, and a willingness to act when concerns arise. This statement reflects our ongoing commitment to uphold human dignity, prevent abuse, and ensure that our modern slavery compliance remains robust, practical, and continuously improving.
