The Gossip (thegossip.org)
Effective Date: Jan 30 2025
Financial Year: 2025
The Gossip is committed to ethical practices and human rights across our operations and supply chains. This Modern Slavery Act Statement outlines our dedication to eradicating modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labor, and child labor in alignment with the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015, the Australian Modern Slavery Act 2018, and other relevant legislation.
2. Our Commitment
We condemn all forms of exploitation and uphold the dignity and rights of every individual. Our commitment extends to:
Zero Tolerance: Prohibiting modern slavery in our operations, partnerships, and supply chains.
Legal Compliance: Adhering to global anti-slavery laws and frameworks.
Transparency: Regularly assessing risks and publicly reporting progress.
3. Organizational Structure
The Gossip is a digital news platform headquartered in [Insert Location], with a global audience and remote workforce. Our operations include content creation, digital publishing, and partnerships with freelancers, advertisers, and technology providers.
Key Risk Areas:
IT Hardware: Procurement of devices (e.g., laptops, servers) from high-risk regions.
Freelance Networks: Ensuring fair treatment of contributors worldwide.
Third-Party Content: Monitoring affiliates/advertisers for ethical practices.
4. Policies & Governance
4.1 Code of Conduct
Mandates ethical behavior, human rights respect, and compliance with anti-slavery laws for all employees and contractors.
4.2 Supplier Code of Conduct
Requires suppliers to prohibit forced labor, ensure fair wages, and allow safe working conditions. Contracts include termination clauses for violations.
4.3 Whistleblower Policy
A confidential channel ([email/phone]) for reporting concerns without retaliation.
4.4 Recruitment Practices
Verification of worker eligibility, bans on recruitment fees, and audits of third-party labor agencies.
5. Due Diligence & Risk Assessment
5.1 Supplier Vetting
Pre-Engagement: Assess suppliers’ labor practices via questionnaires and certifications.
High-Risk Regions: Enhanced scrutiny for suppliers in sectors like electronics manufacturing.
5.2 Internal Audits
Annual audits of payroll, contracts, and working conditions for employees and freelancers.
5.3 Risk Mitigation
Collaboration with ethical suppliers and industry groups (e.g., Sedex, Responsible Business Alliance).
6. Training & Awareness
Employees: Annual training on identifying red flags (e.g., withheld documents, restricted movement).
Management: Advanced training on supply chain risks and remediation strategies.
7. Measuring Effectiveness
KPIs: Track audit compliance, training completion, and resolved grievances.
Annual Review: Report progress in subsequent statements, addressing gaps (e.g., deeper supply chain mapping).
8. Reporting Violations
Stakeholders may report concerns to [email protected]. All claims are investigated promptly, with corrective actions taken as needed.
9. Leadership Accountability
This statement is approved by The Gossip’s Board of Directors and executive team, who oversee its implementation.
The Gossip (thegossip.org)
Next Review Date: Jan 1 2026
This statement reflects The Gossip’s proactive stance against modern slavery and our resolve to foster accountability in the media industry. For questions, contact [email protected].