Gas emergency and pipeline service Wales & West Utilities has marked Anti-Slavery Day by becoming a member of Slave-Free Alliance.
By joining the Slave-Free Alliance, one of the most influential groups in the fight against modern day slavery and human trafficking, the gas emergency and pipeline service for Wales and south west England will now have access to support to protect its operations and supply chains from one of the world’s fastest growing crimes.
The announcement comes on Anti-Slavery Day (18 October) which is held to raise awareness of human trafficking and modern slavery, and encourage government, local authorities, companies, charities and individuals to do what they can to address the problem.
Slave-Free Alliance is part of Hope for Justice, a charity which exists to bring an end to modern slavery by preventing exploitation, rescuing victims, restoring lives and reforming society.
By joining Slave-Free Alliance Wales & West Utilities has joined a global movement, demonstrating commitment to raising awareness of modern slavery and working to promote a zero-tolerance approach to the practice in our supply chains.
Wales & West Utilities General Counsel Paul Millar, worked with Slave-Free Alliance representatives to discuss how to raise awareness of the issue.
Paul said:
“The Alliance will provide us with an independent sounding board and expert guide to compliance and best practice in this area.
“We’re proud to play our part by educating our people and seeking to make sure that slavery is not occurring within our business or supply chains.”
Wales & West Utilities is in the process of implementing refreshed procedures and updating policies, whilst it will also offer new training to colleagues and relevant third parties as part of its zero tolerance of the crime.
Paul added:
“Becoming a member of Slave-Free Alliance will raise further awareness among our customers and colleagues, who will be given the skills to spot the signs of slavery and know what to do about it.”
More information on the Slave-Free Alliance can be found at https://www.slavefreealliance.org