Bodyfunction Clinic
1. Introduction
Bodyfunction Clinic is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all aspects of our practice. We are fully opposed to all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking and will never knowingly be complicit in such practices. This policy outlines our zero-tolerance stance and the steps we take to identify and prevent slavery and trafficking within our operations and supply chains.
2. What is Modern Slavery?
Modern slavery is a serious crime and violation of human rights. It includes:
- Human trafficking
- Forced labour
- Domestic servitude
- Debt bondage
- Child labour
- Exploitation through coercion, deception, or threat
Although healthcare is a low-risk sector, we are alert to the possibility of indirect risk through services we procure or the wellbeing of patients we treat.
3. Scope of Policy
This policy applies to:
- All employees, clinicians, and contractors of Bodyfunction Clinic
- Any third-party suppliers or service providers, including cleaning, IT, and maintenance teams
- Agency staff, locums, and volunteers
- Referral partners or external professionals working under contract with the clinic
4. Our Commitment
At Bodyfunction Clinic, we:
- Have a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery
- Conduct business in a transparent, responsible, and ethical manner
- Will not knowingly support or deal with any business involved in slavery or human trafficking
- Expect all staff and suppliers to uphold the same high standards
5. Due Diligence and Risk Management
To mitigate risk:
- We review our supply chain and service providers annually
- We ensure contracts include commitments to the Modern Slavery Act 2015
- We engage only with trusted, regulated professionals and services
- Any third-party services (e.g. cleaning, software, referrals) must be from reputable organisations
6. Identification of Risk and Reporting
All staff are required to remain vigilant and report concerns, including:
- Patients who may be victims of trafficking or exploitation
- Suspicious employment practices or behaviour within the clinic or suppliers
- Coercive control, physical injuries inconsistent with reported cause, or communication barriers in patients
Reports should be made confidentially to the Clinic Director or safeguarding lead, who will escalate concerns appropriately, including to:
- The Local Authority Safeguarding Team
- The Police
- The Modern Slavery Helpline (08000 121 700)
7. Training and Awareness
We provide training and guidance to all staff covering:
- Signs of modern slavery and trafficking
- How to raise a concern
- Legal obligations under the Modern Slavery Act
Training is included as part of all new staff induction programmes.
8. Review and Responsibility
This policy is reviewed annually or in response to:
- New risks identified
- Legislative changes
- A reported concern or incident
Responsibility for this policy lies with the Clinic Director, who is also responsible for compliance and training.
