The Modern Slavery Act 2015 requires businesses to take proactive steps to ensure that slavery and human trafficking are not taking place within their businesses operations or supply chains. If your organisation has an annual turnover of £36 million or more and operates in the UK, you are legally required to publish an annual Modern Slavery Statement.
We support businesses in meeting these obligations by helping you:
- Understand your legal duties under the Act
- Draft and review your Modern Slavery Statement
- Assess and manage risks in your supply chain
- Implement ethical policies and due diligence procedures
With upcoming changes under the new Modern Slavery Bill, staying compliant is more important than ever. Our specialists are on hand to advise employers on both current requirements and evolving duties under the new legislation.
Combining legal expertise with deep HR experience, Buckles Employment Law Team can help you embed best practice into your policies and procedures—ensuring compliance while maximising the positive impact of your HR strategy.
FAQS
What is Modern Slavery in the workplace?
Modern Slavery is a term that covers severe exploitation, including human trafficking, forced labour, servitude and any situation where individuals are coerced into work against their will. In a business context, this means ensuring that your operations and supply chains are free from these practices also. Businesses have a legal and ethical responsibility to actively identify and prevent Modern Slavery.
How to identify Modern Slavery?
Identifying Modern Slavery requires vigilance and awareness. Key indicators to look out for within your workforce or supply chain include:
- Workers who seem to be under the control of others, are afraid to speak or are chaperoned everywhere.
- Signs of physical or psychological abuse, such as malnourishment or fearfulness.
- Workers living in poor, overcrowded conditions, often at their place of work.
- Individuals who are not in possession of their own passports or identification documents.
- Workers who have had their wages withheld or are being charged excessive “fees” for their job.
Assessing risks in your supply chains and implementing clear reporting procedures are crucial steps in identifying and combating these practices.
Do I need a Modern Slavery statement?
Under the Modern Slavery Act 2015, if your organisation has an annual turnover of £36 million or more and conducts business in the UK, you are legally required to publish a Modern Slavery Statement each financial year.
This statement must detail the steps you have taken to ensure slavery and human trafficking are not occurring in your business or supply chains. Even if you do not meet this threshold, creating a statement is considered best practice for demonstrating corporate responsibility. Your Modern Slavery Statement must be updated every year.
What to do if you suspect Modern Slavery
If you suspect modern slavery, it is essential to take immediate and appropriate action. Start by reporting your concerns to the Modern Slavery Helpline on 0800 0121 700, ensuring you provide a clear account of your observations without intervening directly.
You can also visit the UK government’s modern slavery website for detailed guidance on recognizing signs of modern slavery and the steps to report it safely. Always act with caution to prioritize the safety of individuals involved and respect their confidentiality in all communications. Taking these steps helps to protect vulnerable individuals and contributes to the fight against modern slavery.
