Modern Day Slavery Statement

At Handcrafted, we are dedicated to supporting our staff in line with our Christian ethos and values. We understand that life can present challenges, whether through illness or unforeseen circumstances. We aim to provide a supportive environment that ensures our charity's smooth operation.

This statement outlines our commitment to identifying and preventing modern slavery within our operations and supply chains. We uphold the rights and dignity of every individual and aim to ensure that all aspects of our work reflect our values and comply with UK law.

This policy will be reviewed as required and at least annually by the group or individual responsible for review and authorised by the Trustees as below:

Group or individual responsible for review	The Safeguarding Steering Group
Last review and approval	25/08/2021

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
• Forced marriage
• 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
• Contains provisions for increased sanctions
• Establishes 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:

• Recognise the signs of modern slavery
• 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
• Are treated with dignity and respect
• Receive appropriate pay
• Have their rights respected

Relevant Policies

• Handcrafted Safeguarding Policy – Section 4: Modern Slavery