Anti-Slavery Day | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds.
Anti-Slavery Day: The Business Impact and Responsibilities. | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds.
On October 18th, the UK observes Anti-Slavery Day, an occasion to raise awareness of modern slavery and human trafficking. For businesses, this day is a stark reminder of their legal and ethical obligations to prevent exploitation in their operations and supply chains.
The Scale of Modern Slavery:
Modern slavery affects millions globally, including here in the UK. According to the Global Slavery Index, over 40 million people are trapped in slavery worldwide, with sectors like agriculture, construction, and manufacturing particularly affected. Businesses—large and small—must recognise the potential risks and act to mitigate them.
Legal Obligations for Businesses:
The UK Modern Slavery Act 2015 mandates that businesses with a turnover of £36 million or more must publish an annual statement outlining the steps they have taken to ensure their operations and supply chains are free of slavery. Even for businesses below this threshold, it’s increasingly important to demonstrate a commitment to ethical practices, as consumers and clients demand transparency and responsibility.
The Impact on Business:
Failure to address modern slavery risks can result in severe financial and reputational damage. Public scandals, lawsuits, and fines can harm a company’s bottom line, but beyond that, there is an increasing expectation that businesses play an active role in societal issues. Demonstrating a strong stance against modern slavery can enhance a company’s brand reputation and build trust with customers, employees, and investors.
What Business Owners, Managers, and Colleagues Can Do:
- Review Supply Chains: Ensure your suppliers operate ethically by conducting regular audits and requiring proof of compliance with modern slavery regulations.
- Employee Awareness and Training: Train employees to spot signs of exploitation and know how to report concerns. This could involve identifying suspicious recruitment practices or unusual working conditions.
- Create Clear Policies: Implement anti-slavery and human trafficking policies, making them a part of your company’s core values. This should include a clear grievance mechanism for reporting concerns safely.
- Workplace Practices: Ensure fair recruitment practices, particularly for vulnerable workers, and uphold workers’ rights across all levels of the business.
- Collaborate: Work with industry groups, non-profits, and government bodies to stay informed and take collective action against modern slavery.
By addressing modern slavery proactively, businesses not only comply with the law but contribute to a more ethical and sustainable economy. Anti-Slavery Day serves as a reminder that there’s always more to do in ensuring dignity and freedom for all workers, wherever they are.
If you have any concerns about modern slavery within your business, Consensus HR can help review your policies, supply chain risks, and employee awareness programs to ensure you are compliant with the law and fostering an ethical workplace.
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