The Group has assessed its employment arrangements and its HR Policies and has determined that the risk of offences related to modern slavery being committed is low.
The Group utilises a relatively small number of contractors (short and longer term) and apprentices to support its business needs.
All employees, whether permanent, temporary, contracted, or on an apprenticeship scheme, are thoroughly vetted prior to appointment, and are paid on an equivalent basis for equivalent roles.
In addition, the Group adheres to the standards of the Living Wage Foundation which are reviewed on an annual basis.
Rigorous recruitment processes are in place to ensure that where a third party is appointed to assist with recruitment, they do not charge recruitment fees to the individual being considered for appointment.
Verification of all individuals is also undertaken, as required by UK legislation and regulation, prior to their appointment and for certain roles this includes criminal record checking.
The Group has in place a Wellbeing Strategy which provides a confidential facility for employees to discuss any concerns that they may have in relation to their own wellbeing or that of their colleagues.