1. Purpose
This policy sets out Great British Energy – Nuclear’s (GBE-N) commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in its operations and supply chain. GBE-N will conduct its business in a manner that complies with the Modern Slavery Act (2015) and Public Procurement Notice (PPN) 02/23 and PPN009: ‘Tackling Modern Slavery in Government Supply Chains’.
2. Definitions
“Modern Slavery” is an umbrella term that encompasses various forms of exploitation, including forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, child labour and servitude and slavery-like practices.
3. Policy details
3.1. General
GBE-N has a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all of our operations and relationships.
GBE-N will comply with the UK Modern Slavery Act (2015), the Public Contracts Regulations 2015, the Procurement Act 2023, relevant Procurement Policy Notices (PPN) and the UK Government Modern Slavery Strategy.
GBE-N will implement and maintain effective systems and controls across recruitment, supplier selection and management, and training and awareness, to prevent modern slavery in our operations and supply chains.
We publish an annual Modern Slavery Statement which sets out the steps we are taking to identify, assess and mitigate modern slavery risks.
We expect our business partners to share our commitments to the eradication of modern slavery. These expectations are set out in the Crown Commercial Services Supplier Code of Conduct which requires compliance with all applicable human rights legislation, including complying with the provisions of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and PPN 02/23: Tackling Modern Slavery in Government Supply Chains. Suppliers must also ensure that their subcontractors meet these standards.
3.2. Actions should Modern Slavery be identified
Should GBE-N identify a victim of modern slavery, we will notify law enforcement agencies. Where we believe someone is in immediate danger, and they are in the UK, we will contact the police via emergency services.
Whenever it is appropriate we will work with suppliers to address instances of modern slavery, agreeing on action plans and contract management activities.
If appropriate we may terminate the contract after considering the potential impact on vulnerable and at-risk victims.
Concerns can be raised through any of our reporting channels. Our Speak Up and Whistleblowing Policy sets out how to report a concern including those related to suppliers. We will take appropriate action where our partners fail to meet our expectations or their contractual obligations.
Our Modern Slavery Statement can be found here: GBE-N Modern Slavery Statement – GOV.UK