Legal

Modern Slavery Statement

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Financial year ending: 31 December 2024

1. Introduction

This statement is made pursuant to Section 54 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015. It sets out the steps that Victorian Lords Ltd has taken, and continues to take, to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not taking place within our business or supply chain.

Victorian Lords Ltd is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships, and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery is not taking place anywhere in our business.

2. Our Business

Victorian Lords Ltd is a UK-based haulage and logistics company founded in 2020. We provide nationwide transport services including articulated haulage, box trailers, refrigerated transport, curtainsider services, tail lift vehicles and traction services. We operate a fleet of over 20 vehicles and work with a network of vetted carriers across the United Kingdom.

3. Our Supply Chain

Our supply chain primarily consists of:

  • Subcontracted haulage carriers and owner-drivers
  • Vehicle maintenance and repair providers
  • Fuel suppliers
  • Technology and software service providers
  • Office supplies and professional services

4. Our Policies

We have the following policies in place that contribute to ensuring modern slavery does not occur in our business:

  • Carrier Vetting Policy: All carriers in our network undergo a thorough vetting process including licence checks, insurance verification and compliance assessments
  • Whistleblowing Policy: We encourage all employees and contractors to report any concerns about suspected modern slavery or unethical conduct
  • Code of Conduct: Our code of conduct sets clear expectations for ethical behaviour from all staff and business partners
  • Recruitment Policy: We verify the right to work in the UK for all employees and ensure fair employment practices

5. Due Diligence

As part of our commitment to combating modern slavery, we undertake the following due diligence measures:

  • Vetting all new carriers and subcontractors before they enter our network
  • Requiring carriers to confirm compliance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015
  • Conducting periodic reviews of existing carrier relationships
  • Monitoring for any indicators of forced labour, debt bondage or human trafficking
  • Maintaining open communication channels for reporting concerns

6. Risk Assessment

We recognise that the road haulage and logistics industry can be exposed to modern slavery risks, particularly through:

  • Use of subcontracted drivers and owner-operators
  • Long and complex supply chains
  • Seasonal and agency labour

We assess these risks regularly and take appropriate steps to mitigate them through our vetting, monitoring and reporting procedures.

7. Training

We provide awareness training to our staff so they can recognise the signs of modern slavery and know how to report concerns. Key staff involved in carrier management and recruitment receive enhanced training on an annual basis.

8. Reporting Concerns

If you suspect modern slavery or human trafficking in any part of our business or supply chain, please report it immediately:

9. Approval

This statement has been approved by the directors of Victorian Lords Ltd and will be reviewed and updated annually.