Barker and Stonehouse is committed to ensuring modern slavery is not present in any part of its business or supply chains and has introduced, and will continue to develop, policy and procedures to ensure that everyone connected acts both ethically and with integrity in all their business relationships.

Most of our suppliers have also been our friends for many years so, know our values and goals but, this in no way means we sit back. We recognise the inherent risks within the retail sector and that are also present in areas of the globe we source from. To mitigate the risk and based on the perceived risk involved our buying team will complete factory visits, we will obtain independent inspection reports or at the very least we will ask our suppliers to confirm their commitment to ensuring this heinous crime is tackled head on.

We will continue to build on the hard work that has already been completed to address Modern Slavery and, as we continue to source new business relationships and markets to be involved with, we will not let our vigilant eye be distracted. We will continue to improve our communication with all our suppliers and in-house training in order raise awareness to eradicate Modern Slavery.

Barker and Stonehouse staff handbook has a clear framework of rules and behaviours and encourages the reporting of any concerns or breaches so that they can be dealt with appropriately in accordance with our policies and procedures. We offer an independent and confidential Whistleblowing hotline where staff can raise concerns confidentially and anonymously if they wish.

Our Employee Assistance Programme also provides staff with a secure way of seeking advice about any modern slavery or human trafficking issues personally affecting them or their families.

Barker and Stonehouse insist all staff can clearly demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK. In addition, we only use recognised agencies to source temporary workers and requires all contractors and agency staff to undergo an eligibility check before commencing work with ourselves

James Barker
Managing Director
August 2020