Introduction
Modern slavery and human trafficking remain a serious global issue, affecting individuals and communities worldwide. The Education Company Ltd recognises its responsibility to take a robust approach to slavery and human trafficking and is committed to preventing such practices within its business operations and supply chains.
This policy outlines our zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and explains how we manage this risk in compliance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015.
Purpose
This policy aims to:
- Prevent and combat modern slavery and human trafficking within our business and supply chains
- Promote ethical business practices across all levels of operation
- Provide guidance to employees on recognising and reporting concerns
- Ensure compliance with UK legislation, including section 54 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015
Scope
This policy applies to:
- All employees of The Education Company Ltd
- Contractors, consultants, and agency workers
- Suppliers, partners, and any third parties acting on behalf of the company
Our Commitment
The Education Company Ltd is committed to:
- Acting with integrity and transparency in all business dealings
- Ensuring that there is no modern slavery or human trafficking in any part of our business or supply chains
- Taking proactive steps to assess, monitor, and mitigate the risk of modern slavery within our operations and relationships
Legal Framework
This policy is implemented in accordance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015. Under the Act, organisations must publish an annual statement detailing the steps taken to ensure modern slavery is not occurring within their operations or supply chains.
Responsibilities
Directors and Senior Management
- Ensure the company’s compliance with the Modern Slavery Act
- Promote awareness and enforce this policy throughout the business and supply chain
Managers
- Monitor supplier compliance and report any concerns
- Ensure all employees receive appropriate training
Employees
- Remain vigilant to signs of modern slavery and report concerns promptly
- Comply with this policy at all times
Due Diligence and Risk Assessment
We take the following measures to manage and mitigate risk:
- Conduct regular reviews of suppliers and contractors to confirm compliance with anti-slavery standards
- Include anti-slavery and human trafficking clauses in supplier contracts where applicable
- Maintain communication with suppliers to reinforce our ethical standards
- Require suppliers to confirm they have their own anti-slavery policies and processes in place where applicable
Training and Awareness
- All employees are informed about this policy during induction
- Managers receive training on identifying potential risks within their areas of responsibility
- Guidance is provided on recognising signs of modern slavery and the reporting process
Reporting Concerns
If an employee suspects any instance of modern slavery or human trafficking, they should:
- Report it internally through the company’s Whistleblowing Policy
- Contact the Modern Slavery Helpline:
- Website: www.modernslaveryhelpline.org
- Telephone: 08000 121 700
All reports will be treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled in line with our whistleblowing procedures.
Monitoring
We measure the effectiveness of this policy through:
- Right-to-work checks and labour monitoring
- Payroll audits and verification processes
- Regular supplier reviews and contract audits
- Continuous review of this policy and related procedures
Review and Updates
This policy will be reviewed every 2 years or sooner if required by legal, operational, or regulatory changes.