UKFT has published a Guide to Making Modern Slavery Statements for UK fashion and textile companies. This is available to UKFT members – to access your copy email info@ukft.org.

This document looks primarily at the UK legal requirements of making modern slavery statements but includes links to the requirements of other countries. It is intended as a guide only and we urge companies to seek formal legal advice. UKFT can make introductions to legal partners if required.

Under the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015, UK businesses selling goods and/or services which have an individual company or group turnover in excess of £36 million are required to make an annual statement on Modern Slavery. Below that figure, companies may elect to make a “slavery and human trafficking statement” in the same way that they might choose to make a sustainability or CSR statement.

Outside the UK, some countries such as the United States or even specific states (such as California) will have their own rules which may also apply to UK companies if they are selling into those markets.

The document covers:

• What a statement should include
• What processes should be covered (and examples of tiers for both fashion and textiles)
• Other issues
• Examples of statements
• Full details on the UK law

Not a member? For more details on membership click here  or contact info@ukft.org