Investment Initiative Launches Campaign Against Modern Slavery in UK Companies

Votes Against Slavery, a coalition established in 2019, is spearheading a new effort to tackle modern slavery within UK businesses. The initiative, led by Rathbones and supported by the PRI Collaboration Platform, focuses on engaging 158 FTSE AIM smaller companies and FTSE 350 firms that have neglected to update their modern slavery statements on their UK websites.

Rathbones highlighted that smaller companies, particularly those on the FTSE AIM index, may face challenges in allocating resources for robust due diligence processes, making them susceptible to compliance gaps when it comes to modern slavery regulations.

The 2024 campaign aims to hold non-compliant companies accountable, emphasizing the importance of regular disclosure and action against modern slavery. By honing in on companies that have not met the reporting standards, the initiative seeks to drive a culture of transparency and responsible business practices across the UK corporate landscape.