Modern Slavery Policy Statement

1. Policy Statement

At Wern Vets we are committed to ensuring that modern slavery and human trafficking do not exist in any part of our business or supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to take a robust approach to slavery and human trafficking and are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships.
While we are an independent mixed veterinary practice, we acknowledge the potential for risk in agricultural and supply chain sectors and remain vigilant in upholding fair labour practices and human rights.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All employees, including permanent, temporary, contract, and locum staff
• Suppliers and service providers
• Volunteers and work experience placements
• Any third parties acting on behalf of the practice

3. Our Business

Wern Vets provides veterinary services for both companion animals and livestock. Our services include preventative healthcare, diagnostics, treatment, surgery, and emergency care. We source veterinary products, medications, equipment, and services from both UK-based and international suppliers.
As part of our operations, we work closely with farms, pet owners, wholesalers, laboratories, and pharmaceutical companies. We understand that these sectors can, in some cases, present risks of modern slavery, particularly through extended supply chains.

4. Our Commitment

We are committed to:

• Ensuring there is no modern slavery, forced labour, or human trafficking in any part of our business or supply chain.
• Complying with all applicable laws and regulations concerning labour practices.
• Promoting ethical conduct across all aspects of our work.

5. Risk Management

As a small veterinary practice, we assess our exposure to the risk of modern slavery by:

• Reviewing our supply chains to identify any areas of potential risk, particularly suppliers outside the UK or in sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing.
• Preferring to work with UK-based suppliers who demonstrate ethical labour practices.
• Requiring assurances from high-risk suppliers regarding their compliance with modern slavery legislation.

6. Due Diligence and Supplier Expectations

We aim to:

• Establish relationships with suppliers that share our values.
• Request modern slavery statements from key suppliers where appropriate.
• Avoid doing business with any organisation known to be involved in modern slavery.
• Include clauses in contracts (where proportionate) requiring compliance with anti-slavery laws.

7. Training and Awareness

Due to our size, we do not provide formal training at this time, but we raise awareness by:

• Informing all new staff about our commitment to preventing modern slavery.
• Encouraging team members to report concerns and understand the signs of exploitation.
• Reviewing updates from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), British Veterinary Association (BVA), and government guidance.

8. Reporting Concerns

We encourage all staff, clients, and suppliers to report any concerns about potential modern slavery or unethical practices. Reports can be made confidentially to the Practice Manager or a senior veterinarian. All reports will be taken seriously and investigated appropriately.
If modern slavery is identified or suspected, we will:

• Take immediate action to protect individuals at risk
• Report to the appropriate authorities, such as the police or the Modern Slavery Helpline
• Review and improve our processes to prevent recurrence

9. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if:
There are significant changes in legislation

• We expand our operations
• New risks or concerns emerge
• Last reviewed: 29/08/25

Next review due: 29/08/26
Signed:
Gwyneth Jones
Director
Wern Vets