Handcrafted Statement on Modern-Day Slavery

Changes	Date	By	Notes
Created	25/08/2021	Seymour Jacklin

Modern-Day Slavery

Modern slavery refers to the exploitation of people through forced labour, debt bondage, and forced marriage. It is a form of human trafficking and is a gross violation of human rights. It encompasses a range of practices, including forced labour, domestic servitude, sexual exploitation, and the use of children in dangerous or illegal activities. This can include activities such as forced labour in factories, on construction sites, in agriculture, or in domestic service, as well as forced marriage and the exploitation of children for begging or criminal activities. It is a global problem that affects millions of people and is found in both developed and developing countries.

The UK Modern Slavery Act 2015 is a law designed to protect individuals from exploitation and human trafficking. It requires businesses operating in the UK to develop a “Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement”, outlining the steps they are taking to ensure that their operations and supply chains are free of modern slavery. The Act also makes it a criminal offence for companies to fail to take steps to prevent modern slavery in their operations or supply chains. The Act also contains provisions for increased sanctions and measures to help victims of modern slavery.

Our Commitment

Handcrafted is committed to protecting the rights and welfare of all individuals involved with our organisation. We have a zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and are committed to preventing any form of exploitation and abuse.

Our safeguarding policy includes specific sections on the detection of modern slavery and the raising of concerns. All staff and volunteers are trained to recognize the signs of modern slavery and to know how to raise a concern. We also have a confidential reporting system in place for anyone who suspects or witnesses modern slavery within our organisation or supply chain.

We regularly review our policies and procedures to ensure that we are taking all necessary steps to prevent modern slavery. We will not knowingly support or deal with any business or individual involved in slavery or human trafficking. We will not hesitate to terminate any relationship where we suspect or discover modern slavery.

We will also ensure that all our employees, volunteers and workers have the right to a safe working environment, to be treated with dignity and respect, to receive appropriate pay, and to have their rights respected.

Relevant Policies

Handcrafted Safeguarding Policy - Section 4: Modern Slavery