U&I (By Kerala Ayurveda Centre) Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Policy
Introduction
1.1 Background
U&I (By Kerala Ayurveda Centre) is a UK-based company that operates in live-in care. As a responsible and ethical corporate entity, we acknowledge the global issue of modern slavery and human trafficking and are committed to playing our part in eradicating these abuses from our operations and supply chains.
1.2 Purpose
This policy outlines U&I (By Kerala Ayurveda Centre)’s commitment to preventing and addressing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our business operations and supply chains. It serves as a framework for our efforts to identify, assess, mitigate, and report risks related to these grave violations of human rights.
Policy Statement
2.1 Commitment
U&I (By Kerala Ayurveda Centre) unequivocally condemns all forms of modern slavery, including but not limited to forced labor, human trafficking, debt bondage, child labor, and other exploitative practices. We are dedicated to acting with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights, both within our organisation and across our business relationships.
2.2 Implementation
We are committed to:
a) Ensuring our operations and supply chains are free from modern slavery and human trafficking by conducting due diligence, risk assessments, and implementing appropriate controls.
b) Collaborating with suppliers, partners, and stakeholders to promote ethical and responsible business practices.
c) Educating our employees and stakeholders about the signs of modern slavery and the role they play in its prevention.
d) Periodically reviewing and improving our policies, procedures, and practices to remain at the forefront of efforts to combat modern slavery.
Responsibilities
3.1 Board of Directors
The Board of Directors bears ultimate responsibility for the implementation and effectiveness of this policy. They will allocate necessary resources, oversee implementation, and ensure compliance.
3.2 Employees
Every employee is expected to familiarise themselves with this policy, understand the importance of identifying and reporting modern slavery risks, and contribute to creating a culture of awareness and responsibility.
Supply Chain Management
4.1 Supplier Engagement
We will work closely with suppliers and business partners to ensure they share our commitment to eradicating modern slavery. We will communicate our expectations and encourage their adherence to ethical labor practices.
4.2 Due Diligence
We will conduct comprehensive due diligence to assess and mitigate risks of modern slavery in our supply chains. This includes evaluating new and existing suppliers, as well as periodic audits and assessments.
Risk Assessment and Management
5.1 Identification
We will proactively identify and assess potential modern slavery risks within our operations and supply chains, considering factors such as geographical location, industry practices, and socioeconomic conditions.
5.2 Mitigation
Based on our risk assessments, we will implement appropriate measures to mitigate the identified risks. This may include supplier engagement, capacity-building programs, and ongoing monitoring.
Training and Awareness
6.1 Employee Training
We will provide regular training to employees at all levels to ensure they can recognise signs of modern slavery, understand reporting mechanisms, and contribute to the prevention efforts.
6.2 Stakeholder Awareness
We will engage with stakeholders, suppliers, and partners to raise awareness about the importance of eradicating modern slavery and share best practices.
Reporting and Accountability
7.1 Reporting Mechanisms
We encourage employees, suppliers, and stakeholders to report any suspicions or incidents of modern slavery promptly through established reporting channels or our Whistleblowing Policy.
7.2 Investigation and Action
All reported concerns will be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate action will be taken in accordance with our policies and relevant laws.
Review and Continuous Improvement
8.1 Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure its relevance, effectiveness, and alignment with emerging industry standards and legal requirements.
8.2 Lessons Learned
We will learn from our experiences, successes, and challenges to continuously enhance our approach to combatting modern slavery.
Communication
We are committed to transparent communication regarding our efforts to combat modern slavery. This policy will be communicated to all employees, suppliers, contractors, and stakeholders. It will also be publicly accessible on our website.
Conclusion
U&I (By Kerala Ayurveda Centre) acknowledges its responsibility to address modern slavery and human trafficking and commits to robust actions to prevent, identify, and mitigate these risks. By adhering to the principles outlined in this policy, we strive to contribute to a world where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity.
Date: August 2023
Version: 1.0
This detailed policy document outlines U&I (By Kerala Ayurveda Centre)’s comprehensive approach to combatting modern slavery and human trafficking within its operations and supply chains.