Modern Slavery Statement

Introduction

Modern slavery is a grave violation of fundamental human rights. It encompasses human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation, depriving individuals of freedom and dignity for commercial or personal gain. Arcturus Publishing Limited (“Arcturus”) is committed to combatting modern slavery and human trafficking in all forms, ensuring ethical practices within our operations and supply chain. This policy outlines our efforts and approach to addressing and preventing modern slavery in compliance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015.

Organisational Structure and Operations

Arcturus is an independent book publisher headquartered in London, specialising in high-quality books across various genres, including non-fiction, children’s titles, classics, and puzzles. Our operations and supply chains involve relationships with printers, logistics providers, and distributors in the UK and internationally, particularly in China and other regions with significant book production facilities. We recognise the risks of modern slavery and are committed to operating responsibly and sustainably to ensure fair and ethical practices across all business areas.

Our Commitment

Arcturus acknowledges its responsibility to ensure compliance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015. This involves conducting ongoing reviews of our labour practices and supply chains, fostering a culture of transparency, integrity, and accountability. We adopt a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and will not engage with any entity known to be involved in such practices. Our employees and suppliers are expected to adhere to these same standards.

Policies

To mitigate the risks of modern slavery and human trafficking, Arcturus has implemented a suite of policies. The Whistleblowing Policy encourages employees and stakeholders to report concerns about unethical or illegal practices, including modern slavery, without fear of retaliation. Our Supplier Code of Conduct sets out clear expectations for suppliers, prohibiting forced or bonded labour, ensuring fair wages, and providing safe working conditions. A robust Recruitment Policy ensures ethical hiring practices, and our Purchasing Code references compliance with modern slavery legislation in all supplier contracts and procurement processes.

Risk Assessment and Due Diligence

Arcturus conducts regular assessments to identify risks within its operations and supply chains. We evaluate suppliers using criteria such as country risk profiles, labour practices, and reputational standing. This includes auditing suppliers to ensure adherence to our Supplier Code of Conduct and requiring them to certify that they do not engage in modern slavery. Where necessary, corrective action plans are implemented for suppliers failing to meet our standards.

Training and Awareness

We ensure employees and suppliers are equipped with the knowledge to identify and address modern slavery risks. Induction programmes for new employees include guidance on ethical labour practices. Regular training is provided on recognising signs of modern slavery and reporting mechanisms, supplemented by awareness campaigns through internal communications.

Key Performance Indicators

To measure the effectiveness of our policies and initiatives, we track key metrics such as employee training completion rates, supplier compliance with ethical questionnaires, the number of supplier audits conducted, and concerns raised through whistleblowing channels. These indicators help ensure the ongoing success of our anti-slavery efforts.

Continuous Improvement

Arcturus is committed to enhancing its efforts to prevent modern slavery. This includes regularly reviewing and updating our policies, engaging with external experts, and prioritising partnerships with ethical suppliers. Through these efforts, we aim to embed best practices and uphold our values across all business areas.

Governance and Accountability

A Slavery Compliance Officer has been appointed to oversee our modern slavery programme. Their responsibilities include monitoring compliance, investigating concerns, and reporting progress to the Board of Directors annually. This policy and its accompanying statement are reviewed each financial year to ensure continued relevance and effectiveness.

This statement is made in accordance with Section 54(1) of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and relates to the financial year ending [insert date]. It has been approved by the Board of Directors.