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Modern Slavery Statement

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This statement is made pursuant to Section 54 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and outlines the steps taken by HARDCASTLE & ASSOCIATES during the financial year ending 19/05/2025 to ensure that slavery and human trafficking are not taking place in our business or supply chains.


1. About Us

Hardcastle & Associates is a UK-based small enterprise providing professional consultancy services to universities and other higher education institutions, both in the UK and internationally. Our core services are delivered by a small team of qualified professionals and associates. We do not engage in manufacturing or other high-risk sectors typically associated with modern slavery.


2. Our Commitment

We are committed to upholding ethical standards and acting with integrity in all our business dealings. We recognise our responsibility to take a proactive approach to identifying and minimising risks of modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains, regardless of geography.


3. Our Operations and Supply Chain

Our business model primarily relies on:

  • In-house and associate consultants based in the UK and abroad

  • Reputable suppliers of professional services and software tools

  • Business and administrative support services, mostly UK-based

 

While we consider the overall risk of modern slavery within our direct operations to be low, we acknowledge that international activities and suppliers may carry additional risks due to varying labour standards and regulatory environments. As such, we aim to:

  • Engage only with reputable, ethical partners and suppliers

  • Undertake appropriate due diligence, especially when entering new international markets or collaborations

  • Seek assurances from suppliers and associates that they comply with local labour laws and internationally recognised human rights standards

 

4. Policies and Approach

  • As a small but ethically committed organisation, we:

  • Have a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking

  • Promote fair working practices internally and among our associates

  • Encourage openness and support mechanisms for raising concerns

  • Monitor our supply chain to ensure it aligns with our values


5. Looking Ahead

As our international work increases, we will continue to:

  • Review and strengthen our processes for assessing risk in new territories

  • Explore opportunities for raising awareness about modern slavery among our associates and partners

  • Incorporate ethical and human rights considerations into future procurement and contracting processes

 

 

Approved by: Sarah Hardcastle


Position: Founder


Date: 19/05/2025

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