The Modern Slavery Act 2015 is designed to consolidate various offences relating to human trafficking and slavery. The provisions in the Act create a requirement for an annual statement to be prepared that demonstrates transparency in supply chains. In line with all businesses with a turnover greater than £36 million per annum, the NHS is obliged to comply with the Act.
The Modern Slavery Act makes provision to prohibit slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour and human trafficking and includes provision for the protection of victims.
It’s our mission to ensure that we trade with suppliers in a chain that is free from slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour and human trafficking. We use a clear and transparent procurement process to diligently assess our suppliers’ commitment to an ethical and fair workforce. We constantly review the requirements for all eligible suppliers to produce a published Modern Slavery Act Statement, or to have one made available in writing, and consistently track the progress they are making on their promise.
The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust (TRFT) makes sure all staff involved in procurement of goods and services are aware of, and cognisant of, the risks of modern slavery. TRFT focuses on the Modern Slavery Policy of each qualifying supplier to help inform decisions in a timely way that mitigates and manages these risks.
TRFT provides training and guidance to employees working directly within the supply chain and procurement to educate them on the threshold for the mandatory publishing of Modern Slavery Act Statements as well developing their awareness of the global impact of this human rights issue.
When we deal with third party distributors such as NHS Supply Chain or utilise Framework Agreements, we ensure that they are following the guidelines to include specific Modern Slavery Act questions and retain clear documentation in procurement decisions.
Find out more information about the government's work to end modern slavery here.