Update on modern slavery compliance

Following our earlier article on ESG compliance, here is what has recently changed.

At the end of 2020, the UK Government announced plans to toughen up the reporting obligations relating to modern slavery, introduce mandatory reporting periods, and introduce a penalty for non-compliance with supply chain transparency requirements.

The Home Office has launched its online statement registry to make it easier for people to find modern slavery statements. Organisations with a turnover of more than £36m must now publish their statement using this registry.

Even if not caught by the reporting requirements, we believe that all organisations should prevent modern slavery from taking place in their operations.  Steps include carrying out supplier due diligence, supply chain management, and having suitable contract clauses in place with your suppliers.  Your customers will ask the same from you- make sure your organisation can pass due diligence.