Anti Slavery Policy

1. Introduction

SPROUT(ED) are committed to the highest standards of ethical conduct and integrity in all our business activities. We recognise our responsibility to combat modern slavery and human trafficking, and we are dedicated to ensuring that these practices do not take place within our business or supply chains.

This policy outlines our stance against modern slavery and human trafficking, and the steps we are taking to ensure compliance with relevant laws, including the Modern Slavery Act 2015.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, suppliers, and business partners of SPROUT(ED). It is integral to our operations and underpins our commitment to ethical business practices.

3. Our Commitment

Zero Tolerance – We have a zero tolerance approach to any form of modern slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking. This commitment extends throughout our business and our supply chains.

Compliance with Laws – We comply with all anti-slavery laws, including the Modern Slavery Act 2015, and require our business partners to do the same.

Due Diligence – We conduct rigorous due diligence to ensure that our supply chains are free from modern slavery. This includes assessing risks, auditing suppliers, and ensuring that appropriate safeguards are in place.

Training and Awareness – We provide training to all employees to raise awareness of the risks of modern slavery and human trafficking. We ensure that our staff are equipped to identify and report any concerns related to these issues.

4. Supplier Standards

We require all suppliers and contractors to adhere to our anti slavery policy. They must:

• Not use or condone the use of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour.
• Ensure that all workers have the right to work legally and are employed voluntarily.
• Respect the rights of workers to freedom of association and collective bargaining.
• Provide safe and healthy working conditions.
• Ensure that wages and benefits meet or exceed the legal minimum requirements.
• Prohibit child labour in line with the standards of the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

Failure to comply with these standards may result in the termination of our business relationship.

5. Reporting Concerns

We encourage all employees, suppliers, and business partners to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or human trafficking in our operations or supply chains. Reports can be made confidentially to SPROUT(ED), The Town Hall, High Street East, Wallsend, Tyne & Wear, NE28 7RR.

6. Continuous Improvement

SPROUT(ED) are committed to continually improving our practices to combat modern slavery. We regularly review and update our policies, training, and procedures to ensure they remain effective and aligned with the latest legal requirements and best practices.

7. Conclusion

Modern slavery is a crime and a violation of fundamental human rights. SPROUT(ED) are committed to playing their part in eradicating these practices and ensuring that our business and supply chains operate ethically and responsibly.

SPROUT(ED)
Date: 23rd January 2024