UK government releases updated guidance on modern slavery in supply chains

Businesses with an annual turnover of £36 million must report annually on the steps they take to address modern slavery in their operations and supply chains, under Section 54 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 (MSA).

The Home Office have published updated statutory guidance for businesses on how to tackle modern slavery in supply chains and how to report this transparently in modern slavery statements.

The guidance reflects current best practices and was developed with input from the Forced Labour Forum, a coalition of businesses, civil society organisations, academics, and trade unions, which Walk Free was also a part of.

The revised guidance introduces clearer expectations and best practices for businesses. Key changes include:

• Step-by-step recommendations – Businesses are given detailed, practical advice on how to prevent, identify, and address modern slavery in supply chains.
• Enhanced transparency requirements – Businesses are encouraged to disclose detailed information in their modern slavery statements, improving accountability.
• Encouraging disclosure of modern slavery incidents – Businesses are urged to be open about identifying modern slavery and to outline their response measures.
• Stronger emphasis on collaboration – The guidance highlights the importance of engaging with workers, trade unions, and civil society to address risks effectively.
• Focus on continuous improvement – Businesses are expected to build on their efforts each year and document their progress in modern slavery statements.

All businesses publishing modern slavery statements should review the new guidance and align their reporting accordingly.

As has been the case since the MSA launched in 2015, statements must be approved by the company board, signed by a director, and published within 6 months of the financial year-end. This should be accessible via the company’s website homepage.

The UK government launched the modern slavery statement registry in 2021 to consolidate reporting in one place.

Businesses are encouraged to submit their statements to the registry to promote transparency and accountability.

The updated guidance emphasises the need for businesses to take a proactive approach to addressing modern slavery in their operations and supply chains.

While this is a step in the right direction, we urge the UK government to consider mandatory measures such as Mandatory Human Rights Due Diligence (MHRDD) legislation.

We remain concerned that voluntary guidance alone will result in low uptake and primarily impact only those companies already committed to addressing modern slavery.

With increased scrutiny from investors, consumers, and civil society, companies must meet evolving expectations and contribute to the global effort to combat modern slavery.

Read the full guidance to learn more about the details.