Kingston Removals Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Kingston Removals in respect of our financial year and sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our relationships and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery does not occur.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Kingston Removals provides residential and commercial removal, relocation, packing, and associated storage services. Our operations rely on a network of employees, agency workers, subcontracted drivers and porters, vehicle and equipment suppliers, packaging material providers, and property and facility services. We recognise that some parts of the logistics and removals sector, and the broader supply chains on which it depends, may be exposed to risks of labour exploitation.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

Kingston Removals adopts a strict zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, servitude, and debt bondage. Any form of exploitation is fundamentally incompatible with our values and our responsibilities as an employer and service provider. We expect the same high standards from all those we work with, including employees, agency staff, contractors, and suppliers at every level of our supply chain.

Our zero-tolerance policy is reflected in our internal policies, contractual terms, and supplier requirements. Where we identify a breach or credible risk, we are prepared to take decisive action, which may include suspension of work, termination of contracts, and informing relevant authorities where appropriate.

Due Diligence and Supplier Audits

We conduct proportionate due diligence on new and existing suppliers to help identify and reduce the risk of modern slavery in our supply chains. This may include requesting information on labour practices, recruitment methods, use of subcontractors, and working conditions. We expect suppliers to be able to demonstrate that they operate fair and transparent working practices and that they comply with all applicable labour laws.

Kingston Removals reserves the right to carry out audits or site visits, announced or unannounced, where we consider there may be a higher risk of labour exploitation. During such audits we may review employment records, worker identification processes, accommodation arrangements where provided, and mechanisms for worker feedback. If gaps or issues are identified, we will seek corrective action plans with realistic timescales and monitor progress. Persistent non-compliance or refusal to cooperate with audits may result in the ending of the business relationship.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities

Managers and staff members involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management receive training to help them recognise indicators of modern slavery and understand how to respond to concerns. We aim to ensure that individuals in positions of responsibility are aware of the potential risks within the removals and logistics sector, including the use of informal labour arrangements and third-party intermediaries.

All employees are expected to read and comply with our internal policies relating to ethical conduct, recruitment, and whistleblowing. Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery sits with senior management, who ensure that appropriate resources are allocated to this area.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Kingston Removals encourages anyone who works for us, supplies us, or otherwise interacts with our business to report any concerns or suspicions regarding modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns may relate to our own operations or to any part of our supply chains.

Reports can be made through internal reporting lines to line managers or senior management. We will take all reports seriously, treat them sensitively, and investigate as appropriate. We are committed to ensuring that no one suffers any retaliation or detrimental treatment for raising a concern in good faith about modern slavery, whether the concern proves to be substantiated or not.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility and that our approach must evolve in response to emerging risks, legislative changes, and best practice. Kingston Removals is committed to reviewing this Modern Slavery Statement and our supporting policies and procedures at least once every year.

As part of the annual review, we will assess the effectiveness of our measures by considering factors such as the outcomes of supplier audits, any reported concerns, training completion rates, and feedback from workers and stakeholders. Where opportunities for improvement are identified, we will update our processes and communicate changes to relevant employees and suppliers.

This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the management of Kingston Removals and represents our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains.