Modern Slavery Statement
Our Commitment
At White Care Group, we have a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and all forms of exploitation.
We are committed to protecting the human rights of everyone connected with our organisation, including the people we support, our colleagues, volunteers and those working within our supply chain. We expect the same high standards from all organisations and businesses that work with us.
Our commitment reflects the principles of the Modern Slavery Act 2015, the Human Rights Act 1998, and our wider commitment to providing safe, ethical and person-centred care.
What is Modern Slavery?
Modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights. It can take many forms, including:
- Human trafficking
- Forced or compulsory labour
- Debt bondage
- Domestic servitude
- Criminal exploitation
- Labour exploitation
- Child exploitation
- Sexual exploitation
Modern slavery can affect people of any age, gender or background and is often hidden from view.
How We Help Prevent Modern Slavery
White Care Group is committed to reducing the risk of exploitation by:
- Following robust and fair recruitment procedures, including identity and right-to-work checks.
- Providing fair terms and conditions of employment for all colleagues.
- Delivering safeguarding and modern slavery awareness training to staff.
- Encouraging an open culture where concerns can be raised without fear.
- Working with reputable suppliers who share our commitment to ethical employment practices.
- Responding promptly to any concerns and working with the appropriate authorities where necessary.
Protecting the People We Support
We recognise that some people receiving care may be more vulnerable to exploitation due to age, illness, disability or cognitive impairment.
Our colleagues are trained to recognise the signs of modern slavery and exploitation and understand their responsibility to report concerns immediately through our safeguarding procedures. We work closely with local authorities, the police and partner agencies to protect anyone who may be at risk.
Raising a Concern
If you are concerned that someone may be experiencing modern slavery or exploitation, please speak to the Home Manager of the relevant White Care Group home in the first instance. Contact details for each of our homes can be found on their individual home pages.
If you are a member of staff, concerns should be reported immediately to your Home Manager or another senior manager. If you feel unable to do so, you are encouraged to use our Whistleblowing Policy. All concerns raised in good faith will be treated seriously and investigated appropriately.
If you believe someone is in immediate danger, please call 999.
Further Information
If you need advice or wish to report concerns about modern slavery, you can also contact:
Modern Slavery & Exploitation Helpline
Telephone: 08000 121 700
Website: www.modernslaveryhelpline.org
Somerset Adult Social Care
Telephone: 0300 123 2224 (Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 5:30pm)
Emergency Duty Team (Out of Hours)
Telephone: 0300 123 2327
Email: adults@somerset.gov.uk