Modern Slavery Policy

 

1. Policy statement

Ann’s Gentle Hands Ltd is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all its forms in our business and across our supply chain. We acknowledge our responsibility under the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and recognise that modern slavery is a crime involving the deprivation of a person’s liberty by another to exploit them for personal or commercial gain. Our approach is founded on acting ethically, with integrity and transparency in all business relationships. 

2. Scope and application

This policy applies to all persons working for or on behalf of Ann’s Gentle Hands Ltd in any capacity including employees, contractors, suppliers, subcontractors and agency workers. It also extends to our supply chains and any area where the company has influence.

3. Our commitments

We commit to the following:

• We will not knowingly enter into business with any organisation that is involved in slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour or human trafficking.

• We will carry out due diligence on our supply chains and procurement practices to identify and manage risk of modern slavery.

• We will ensure our recruitment and employment practices safeguard against forced labour and exploitation: all employees will have the right to work in the UK, receive fair wages and not be coerced into working.

• We will require our suppliers and contractors to adhere to the highest ethical standards, and expect them to hold similar commitments within their own supply chains.

• We will provide training and awareness for our staff so that they understand the signs of modern slavery, know how to report concerns and understand their responsibilities.

• We will protect whistle-blowers who raise concerns in good faith and will respond to any alleged breach of this policy in a transparent and timely manner.

• We will review and update our policies, processes and controls on a regular basis to ensure they remain effective and reflect best practice.

4. Due diligence and risk assessment

We recognise that our main risk areas include recruitment (particularly agency or third-party staffing), overseas procurement and supply chains. We will adopt a risk-based approach to identify, monitor and mitigate these risks. This may include supplier audits, contractual clauses requiring compliance, right to work checks, verifying chain of supply and monitoring labour standards regularly. 

5. Reporting concerns and escalation

Any individual who works for or with us must promptly report any suspicion of modern slavery or human trafficking. Such reports should be made to info@annsgentlehands.co.uk. We will investigate all reports, take appropriate action (which may include termination of contracts) and, if required, refer to the relevant authorities.

6. Training and awareness

We will provide training to our staff to raise awareness of modern slavery — its definition, indicators, how to respond and report concerns. Training will form part of the induction process and be refreshed periodically.

7. Review and governance

This policy will be reviewed annually (or sooner if significant changes occur) to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness.

Signed: Ann’s Gentle Hands Ltd Management Team