Anti-Slavery and Human Trafficking Policy
This policy is formulated with the primary objective of facilitating the provision of necessary support for the people under our care, while ensuring fairness, consistency, and transparency for our colleagues. It is designed to be compliant with both our organisational culture and aims, as well as with employment legislation. By establishing clear guidelines, this policy sets the groundwork for fostering high standards of care and compliance within our organisation. We are dedicated to cultivating a work environment where all colleagues are treated as unique individuals, with fairness, equality, and consistency. Mutual respect and collaboration are fundamental values we uphold, aiming to achieve greatness together. Our goal is to ensure that every member of the Denbridge Care team understands their responsibilities, possesses the necessary knowledge, exhibits appropriate behaviours, and embodies our core values to fulfil their roles to the best of their abilities, thereby ensuring the safety of the individuals we support at all times. The principles outlined in this policy extend beyond our interactions with colleagues to encompass how we engage with the individuals we support, visitors, clients, customers, suppliers, and former colleagues. We aspire to foster an environment where extraordinary collaboration is the norm. Furthermore, we are committed to promoting transparency in our own operations and in addressing modern slavery across our supply chains, aligning with our disclosure obligations under the Modern Slavery Act 2015. We hold our contractors, suppliers, and other business partners to the same high standards we set for ourselves.
Policy Scope
This policy applies to all colleagues of Denbridge Care, encompassing colleagues across various employment statuses, including temporary, fixed-term, or permanent employees, as well as agency workers, casual workers, self-employed contractors, external consultants, third-party representatives, or business partners. It's important to note that this policy is not contractual; rather, it serves as a guide for behaviour and expectations. While we strive for consistency in its application, there may be instances where deviations are necessary, including adjustments to time limits. As a non-contractual policy, it may be subject to amendments from time to time. However, any changes will always be made with the overarching objective of fostering an environment of collaboration, respect, and excellence, wherein all individuals are valued and heard.
Confidentiality
Denbridge care objective is to handle matters concerning modern slavery with sensitivity and utmost respect for the privacy of all individuals involved. Any information disclosed to you in relation to this policy, whether concerning yourself or other colleagues within the organization, should be regarded as strictly confidential. You can anticipate that any concerns raised about you under the terms of this policy will also be handled confidentially, except as required under the employment processes outlined in this policy.
What is Modern Slavery?
Modern slavery encompasses a range of egregious forms, including slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour, and human trafficking. Regardless of the specific form, the common thread is the deprivation of an individual's liberty by another for the purpose of exploiting them for personal or commercial gain. It's crucial to recognise that modern slavery is not only a crime but also a severe violation of fundamental human rights. At Denbridge Care, we maintain a zero-tolerance stance toward modern slavery. We are unwavering in our commitment to conducting all business dealings and relationships with ethics and integrity. It is our sincere endeavour to ensure that modern slavery does not occur within Denbridge Care or in any of our supply chains.
Identifying Modern Slavery
Preventing and identifying modern slavery within any part of the Company or our supply chains is a shared responsibility that falls on every individual. If you have concerns or suspicions regarding modern slavery within any part of the Company or with any third party, it's imperative to raise these concerns promptly with your Manager or the Human Resources team. If you believe or suspect a breach of this policy has occurred, or may occur, you should notify your Manager or report it in accordance with our Whistleblowing Policy without delay. If you are uncertain about whether a particular act, the treatment of workers, or their working conditions within any part of our Company, suppliers, or third-party partners constitutes any form of modern slavery, it is encouraged to bring this uncertainty to the attention of your Manager or the Human Resources team. We are committed to supporting anyone who raises genuine concerns in good faith under this policy, even if they are mistaken. Our dedication extends to ensuring that no one suffers any adverse treatment as a result of reporting suspicions of modern slavery. Adverse treatment includes dismissal, disciplinary action, threats, or any other unfavourable treatment connected with raising a concern. If you believe you have experienced such treatment, please inform your Manager, a Senior Manager, or the Human Resources department. If necessary, you may also utilize our Grievance policy.
Communication Awareness & Training
Colleagues are educated about modern slavery and its associated risks through Denbridge Care Learning. Our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery must be communicated to all suppliers, contractors, and business partners at the commencement of our business relationship with them. This message should be reinforced as necessary thereafter.
Breaches of this Policy
Any colleague found to be in breach of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, with consequences potentially including summary dismissal. Furthermore, we reserve the right to terminate our relationship with any individuals or organizations working on our behalf if they violate this policy.