Modern Slavery Statement

UFS is a provider of child centered services that make a lasting and life-long difference to vulnerable children's lives. We do this as a children’s service provider, renowned for an optimistic and pragmatic approach with a belief that change is possible.

In accordance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015, UFS recognises that it has a responsibility to take a robust approach to slavery and human trafficking and is absolutely committed to preventing slavery and human trafficking in its corporate activities. UFS is committed to ensuring the business and its supply chains are free of slavery and recognises modern slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour and human trafficking as grave violations of many human rights and freedoms.

The supply chain of the business is limited to the purchase of office supplies and materials to support the fostering agency workers. The children who are looked after are subject to regulation through the relevant local authority and regular reviews of their care is carried out to ensure safeguarding standards are fully met. We are committed to implementing policies that aim to prevent this within our business.

To identify and cut the risks of modern slavery and human trafficking within the organisation, UFS has established robust recruitment procedures as detailed in its Recruitment Policy. UFS has several controls in place to ensure compliance with employment legislation. Its Whistleblowing Policy encourages staff to disclose issues and concerns that are within the public interest, and we have open channels for staff to talk to senior managers who will listen and talk to staff about any concerns.

To ensure a good understanding of the risks of modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains, the Company provides its staff with an organisational development programme including modern slavery, child sexual exploitation (CSE), child criminal exploitation (CCE) and access to our on-line training hub for related subjects. Staff are also advised of resources available at www.modernslaveryhelpline.org and they can be contacted on 08000 121 700.

In the unfortunate event that unethical behaviour is identified then we would take all the necessary steps to remedy the situation including: Financial remediation, Changes to policy,Change to training and upskilling, Referring potential victims to government services, Providing emotional support to victims, Supporting investigations by relevant authorities

UFS’s codes of conduct make clear to employees the actions and behaviours expected of them when representing the organisation. The organisation’s values are imbedded into our policies, procedures and in the work that we do. We expect the same high standards from all the people we work with.

We will continue to continue provide training, enhance our policies and procedures to help us identify, prevent, and mitigate any risks of modern slavery or human trafficking in relation to our own operations and external suppliers be they existing or new.

United Fostering Services, Management