Modern slavery remains a significant global issue, affecting vulnerable workers across various industries, including construction. Recruitment agencies play a crucial role in preventing exploitation by ensuring ethical hiring practices, conducting due diligence on supply chain partners, and promoting transparency in labour supply. At Piling Recruitment Group (PRG), we take this responsibility seriously and have implemented rigorous measures to uphold fair treatment and compliance in our operations.
The Risk of Modern Slavery in Labour Supply
The recruitment industry is often a key link between workers and employers, making it a potential entry point for unethical employment practices. Some of the risks include:
- Hidden exploitation within complex labour supply chains.
- Workers being charged recruitment fees, leading to debt bondage.
- Lack of oversight in payroll and subcontracting arrangements.
- Unclear employment rights, leaving workers vulnerable to abuse.
PRG recognises these risks and actively works to prevent any form of modern slavery in our recruitment processes and supply chain relationships.
How PRG Leads in Ethical Recruitment
To combat modern slavery, PRG has implemented a series of robust processes and policies to ensure ethical recruitment, including:
- Rigorous Supplier Due Diligence
We conduct comprehensive audits and compliance checks on our supply chain, focusing on training providers and payroll companies. In the last year, PRG has conducted multiple modern slavery supplier risk assessments to ensure ethical standards are met. Additionally, two internal audits were carried out, ensuring our own processes align with ethical labour practices.
- Ensuring Transparency in Payroll & Contracts
A key area of concern in labour supply is unethical payroll practices, where workers may be misclassified or underpaid. PRG works exclusively with payroll providers that meet ethical wage and compliance standards, ensuring all workers receive fair compensation without hidden deductions.
- Worker Awareness & Training
Workers are often unaware of their rights, making them more susceptible to exploitation. PRG actively provides:
- Clear employment contracts with transparent terms.
- Information on worker rights and reporting mechanisms.
- A whistleblowing system where workers can confidentially raise concerns.
Additionally, all PRG directors have completed modern slavery awareness training, reinforcing our commitment to ethical recruitment.
- Proactive Monitoring & Feedback Loops
Rather than waiting for issues to arise, PRG implements a continuous feedback system, ensuring:
- 100% of workers surveyed confirm fair working conditions.
- Regular touchpoints to identify and address any concerns before they escalate.
The Industry’s Responsibility to Act
While PRG takes a strong stance against modern slavery, the issue requires industry-wide collaboration. We urge other recruitment agencies, contractors, and industry stakeholders to:
- Conduct thorough due diligence on supply chain partners.
- Ensure workers are paid fairly and employed under clear contracts.
- Provide modern slavery awareness training to recruiters and workers alike.
- Establish strong reporting mechanisms to address any signs of exploitation.
Conclusion
Modern slavery has no place in the recruitment industry or the construction sector. PRG remains committed to leading by example, implementing best practices, and driving change. By maintaining strict compliance, fostering transparency, and prioritising worker wellbeing, we are taking real steps to combat modern slavery in our operations and beyond.
For more information on PRG’s anti-slavery initiatives or to discuss ethical recruitment solutions, contact the PRG Team
