What Is a Modern Slavery Statement?
A modern slavery statement is a public declaration by organisations detailing their efforts to combat modern slavery within their operations and supply chains. It's part of a commitment to protect human rights and tackle exploitation, servitude, and forced labour.
The UK's Modern Slavery Act 2015 requires certain businesses to publish these statements annually. If your organisation has a turnover of £36 million or more and operates in the UK, you're likely required to issue one.
These statements cover key areas like your organisation's structure and supply chains. They should describe policies and procedures aimed at preventing slavery and human trafficking.
Transparency is key – you're expected to demonstrate proactive measures.
Some companies voluntarily publish modern slavery statements, going beyond legal obligations. This practice is becoming more common as organisations strive to uphold human dignity and ethical practices.
Including evidence of actions taken, such as staff training or risk assessments, can strengthen your statement.
By addressing potential vulnerabilities in your supply chains, you show commitment to eradicating exploitation.
Publishing a modern slavery statement isn't just a legal requirement; it demonstrates your dedication to conducting business ethically and responsibly. By making efforts to prevent forced labour and exploitation, you're helping to create a more just world.
When Is a Modern Slavery Statement Needed?
If you're part of a commercial organisation operating in the UK, there are certain conditions under which a modern slavery statement becomes essential. This is largely governed by the Modern Slavery Act 2015. Here's what you need to know about modern slavery statements:
- Annual Turnover: Your organisation needs to have an annual turnover of £36 million or more to fall under the statutory requirement for a modern slavery statement.
- Structure: Whether you're a corporate body or a partnership, if you meet the financial criteria, you need this statement.
- Location: The statement is applicable no matter where you're incorporated or formed as long as you operate in the UK.
Not limited to commercial businesses, even charities might find themselves needing to submit a statement if they meet the same criteria. This is because the focus is on addressing modern slavery risks across all sectors and types of organisations.
The government's statutory guidance on GOV.UK outlines that these statements need to be published each financial year. This ensures transparency about the efforts made to combat modern slavery and human trafficking.
The information must be prominently displayed, often on your website, so stakeholders can easily find your commitment and actions.
If you're managing a qualifying organisation, your next step is to get familiar with the Home Office guidelines and register your statement, ensuring you're compliant with the UK regulations.
How to Write a Modern Slavery Statement
Creating a modern slavery statement involves several key steps. Each step is crucial to ensure transparency and compliance with the Modern Slavery Act.
Step 1: Understand Your Organisation's Structure and Supply Chains
Begin by evaluating your entire organisation, including its structure and supply chains. Identify all potential modern slavery risks.
Mapping your supply chains helps increase transparency so you can pinpoint areas that might need more scrutiny.
Step 2: Develop Relevant Policies
Craft and continuously update policies that address slavery and human trafficking. These should reflect your zero-tolerance approach and be integrated across procurement and operational procedures.
Regular policy reviews can help align these with current best practices.
Step 3: Implement Due Diligence Procedures
Set up robust due diligence processes to prevent modern slavery in your supply chains. This might include risk assessments, supplier audits, and strong procurement practices.
These procedures enhance accountability and reduce risks at every level.
Step 4: Enhance Training and Awareness
Develop training programmes for employees and suppliers on modern slavery. This increases awareness and builds a culture of ethical employment practices.
Tailor training to roles, ensuring everyone understands their part in prevention.
Step 5: Establish Key Performance Indicators
Set clear KPIs to measure the effectiveness of your strategies to prevent modern slavery.
Regular assessment against these indicators helps track progress and highlight areas needing improvement.
Step 6: Prepare Your Annual Statement for the Registry
Draft your modern slavery statement yearly, ensuring it reflects your ongoing efforts and improvements. Be detailed about your policies, actions, and future commitments.
Publish this statement visibly on your website, as transparency is crucial.
