Modern Slavery Statement for Poplar Removals

Poplar Removals is committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and child labour within our operations and throughout our supply chains. We recognise that zero tolerance is essential, and we expect the same standard from everyone who works with or for our business.

As a removals company, Poplar Removals relies on people, transport, equipment and subcontracted services to deliver safe and reliable services. That means we must remain vigilant to the risks of exploitation in recruitment, labour supply, vehicle maintenance, packaging, storage and outsourced services. Our Poplar Removals modern slavery policy applies to all staff, managers, suppliers and contractors, and it forms part of our wider commitment to ethical trading.

We take a clear zero-tolerance policy toward any form of modern slavery. No individual should ever be forced, deceived, threatened or controlled for the benefit of our business. This includes unlawful withholding of wages, debt bondage, passport retention, excessive working hours and unsafe living or working conditions. Any breach, or suspected breach, is treated as a serious matter and may result in immediate termination of the business relationship.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

To reduce risk across our supply chain, Poplar Removals performs proportionate due diligence before engaging suppliers and subcontractors. We assess the nature of the service, country of origin, labour model and sector-specific vulnerability. High-risk suppliers may be subject to enhanced checks, contractual obligations and periodic supplier audits to confirm compliance with our standards.

These audits may include document reviews, workforce checks, site inspections and confirmation that workers are employed voluntarily and lawfully. We also expect suppliers to maintain accurate records and to cooperate fully with any review. Where concerns are identified, we require prompt corrective action. Failure to improve may lead to suspension or removal from our approved supplier base.

Our procurement decisions consider more than price and efficiency; they also reflect ethical performance. Poplar Removals seeks to work only with suppliers that share our values and can demonstrate responsible recruitment and labour practices. We encourage transparency, especially where labour is sourced through agencies, third parties or seasonal arrangements. This approach helps us strengthen resilience and accountability across the business.

Reporting Channels and Accountability

We provide reporting channels so that concerns can be raised safely and in good faith. Employees, suppliers and other stakeholders are encouraged to speak up if they suspect exploitation, unsafe labour practices or any related misconduct. Reports may be made through management, HR or designated internal reporting routes, and concerns will be handled discreetly and without retaliation.

All reported issues are assessed promptly, documented carefully and escalated where necessary. If modern slavery is suspected, Poplar Removals will cooperate with relevant authorities and take immediate steps to protect affected individuals. We understand that effective reporting depends on trust, so we promote a culture in which people can raise concerns without fear of punishment or disadvantage.

Training plays an important role in helping our team recognise warning signs such as restricted movement, poor pay, intimidation or inconsistent identity documentation. Awareness is reinforced through onboarding, internal updates and management oversight. By building understanding across the organisation, Poplar Removals modern slavery statement becomes a practical commitment rather than a paper policy.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This statement and our supporting controls are reviewed annually to ensure they remain effective, proportionate and aligned with legal requirements and business changes. The review considers audit findings, reported concerns, supplier performance, training outcomes and any changes in risk profile. Where improvement is needed, we update our processes and strengthen controls accordingly.

Poplar Removals is committed to continuous improvement and to maintaining a responsible supply chain. Our objective is clear: to prevent exploitation, protect workers and uphold dignity in every part of our operations. Through zero tolerance, supplier audits, robust reporting channels and annual review, we aim to ensure that modern slavery has no place in our business.