Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Policy

1. Policy Statement

The Helping Hands Community Trust is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our work and within our supply chains.

We recognise that modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights. It takes various forms including slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour, and human trafficking.

As an organisation founded in 1997 providing free, independent and specialist advice and support, we are committed to acting ethically, with integrity and transparency in all our activities. Our approach reflects our core values of being Approachable, Non-judgemental, Hopeful and Empowering, and our commitment to ensuring every individual has the confidence, tools and opportunities to thrive free from poverty, deprivation and isolation.

2. Purpose

This policy sets out our commitment to:

• Prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations
• Ensure our suppliers and partners uphold the same standards
• Protect and support individuals who may be affected
• Comply with the Modern Slavery Act 2015

3. Scope

This policy applies to:

• Trustees
• Employees
• Volunteers
• Contractors
• Agency staff
• Suppliers and partners

4. Our Commitment

The Helping Hands Community Trust will:

• Operate with zero tolerance to modern slavery and human trafficking
• Ensure recruitment practices are fair, transparent and compliant with UK employment law
• Pay at least the National Minimum Wage/National Living Wage as required
• Carry out appropriate checks when engaging suppliers and contractors
• Promote safeguarding and safe reporting practices
• Raise awareness of modern slavery within our team

5. Risk Awareness

As a charity supporting individuals experiencing hardship, including poverty, homelessness, debt and vulnerability, we recognise that some of the people we support may be at increased risk of exploitation.

Staff and volunteers will remain vigilant to potential indicators of modern slavery and human trafficking, including:

• Signs of coercion, control or fear
• Inability to provide personal identification documents
• Restricted freedom of movement
• Evidence of exploitation or abuse

Where concerns arise, staff will follow our Safeguarding Policy and report appropriately.

6. Reporting Concerns

Any concerns regarding modern slavery or human trafficking should be reported immediately to:

• The CEO
• The Designated Safeguarding Lead
• The Chair of Trustees if concerns relate to senior management

Concerns may also be reported to:

• The Modern Slavery Helpline 08000 121 700
• The Police 999 in an emergency or 101 for non-emergency

We will ensure that no individual suffers any detriment for raising concerns in good faith.

7. Due Diligence and Supply Chains

Although our supply chains are limited due to the nature and size of our organisation, we expect all suppliers and partners to:

• Comply with the Modern Slavery Act 2015
• Operate fair employment practices
• Confirm they do not engage in forced, bonded or involuntary labour
• Where appropriate, we may request confirmation of compliance from suppliers

8. Training and Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness among staff and volunteers about:

• The risks of modern slavery
• How to identify potential signs
• How to report concerns

Training may be delivered as part of induction and ongoing development.

9. Monitoring and Review

This policy will be reviewed annually by the Board of Trustees and updated as required to ensure it remains effective and compliant with legislation.

Approved by: Board of Trustees
Date: 3rd March 2026
Review Date: March 2028