Fentons Solicitors is committed to upholding the highest ethical standards and ensuring that modern slavery and human trafficking are not present in any part of our business or supply chains. This policy outlines our approach to combating modern slavery, in compliance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015.

Our Commitment

We recognise our responsibility to act ethically and transparently in all business dealings and to implement effective systems and controls to prevent modern slavery in our operations and supply chains.

Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, suppliers, and any third-party entities associated with Fentons Solicitors.

What Is Modern Slavery?

Modern slavery encompasses:

• Forced labour: Coerced work under threat or penalty.
• Human trafficking: Recruitment, transportation, or harbouring of individuals by improper means for exploitation.
• Debt bondage: Workers tied to their job by an obligation to repay a debt.
• Child labour: Work that deprives children of their childhood, education, or dignity.

Our Approach to Preventing Modern Slavery

1. Governance and Accountability

   • The Board of Directors has overall responsibility for ensuring compliance with this policy.
   • A designated Modern Slavery Officer oversees the implementation of anti-slavery measures.

2. Risk Assessment

   • Conduct regular assessments to identify areas of the business and supply chain at risk of modern slavery.
   • Focus on high-risk industries or geographic regions.

3. Supplier Standards

   • Require all suppliers and contractors to adhere to our Supplier Code of Conduct, which includes a commitment to ethical labour practices and compliance with modern slavery laws.
   • Perform due diligence on new and existing suppliers to ensure compliance with our anti-slavery stance.

4. Training and Awareness

   • Provide regular training to employees and contractors on recognising and preventing modern slavery.
   • Raise awareness of this policy and reporting mechanisms among all staff.

5. Employee Conduct

   • Expect all employees to report any concerns regarding modern slavery, whether in our business or supply chain.
   • Protect whistleblowers under our Whistleblowing Policy.

6. Monitoring and Reporting

   • Implement measures to monitor and review the effectiveness of our anti-slavery efforts.
   • Require suppliers to provide evidence of compliance, such as audit reports or certification.
   • Regularly review this policy to ensure it remains effective and up to date.

Reporting Concerns

If you suspect modern slavery in any part of our operations or supply chains, report it immediately to the Modern Slavery Officer at info@fentons.co.uk. Reports will be handled confidentially, and individuals raising concerns will be protected from retaliation.

Consequences of Breach

Non-compliance with this policy may result in:

• Termination of contracts with suppliers or contractors.
• Disciplinary action for employees, up to and including dismissal.
• Reporting breaches to the relevant authorities.

Continuous Improvement

Fentons Solicitors is committed to continuous improvement in our efforts to combat modern slavery. We will:

• Regularly review our policies, procedures, and practices.
• Engage with industry initiatives and best practices to stay informed and proactive.

Approval

This policy has been approved by the Board of Directors of Fentons Solicitors.

Review Date

This policy will be reviewed annually or more frequently as necessary to reflect changes in legislation or our business practices.

Contact Information

For questions or concerns about this policy, please contact us at info@fentons.co.uk or visit our contact page here.