Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Whilst the greatest modern slavery and human trafficking risk lies within the supply chain, the Council is alert to these risks both within the organisation itself and externally within the Borough.

Our trained safeguarding officers support staff across the Council to identify and respond to safeguarding issues which may include modern slavery and human trafficking. A modern slavery pathway has been introduced by the Teeswide Adult Safeguarding Board to ensure those found in modern slavery and human trafficking are protected and supported.

Council officers within regulatory and civic enforcement roles are alert to modern slavery and human trafficking and can recognise and refer for investigation.

The Council's recruitment processes are transparent and reviewed regularly. They include procedures for vetting new employees, which ensures they can confirm their identities and qualifications, and all workers are paid directly into an appropriate personal bank account. To comply with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006, all prospective employees are asked to supply evidence of their eligibility to work in the UK. References are also requested and followed up.

The Council encourages its employees to report any concerns related to the direct activities or the supply chains of the Council. The Confidential Reporting Policy is designed to make it easy for employees to make disclosures, without fear of retaliation and includes issues of possible fraud, corruption, exploitation sexual or physical abuse of clients.

The Council's Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Policy includes the Council's commitment to activity that meets legal duties, outlines the Council's commitment to equal opportunities, valuing diversity and inclusion, creating a safe and inclusive working environment free from unlawful and unfair discrimination.