A modern slavery statement is a published document setting out the steps an organisation takes to prevent slavery and human trafficking in its business and supply chains. In public sector bidding, it has become a key part of demonstrating that you are a responsible, low-risk supplier. This guide explains what a modern slavery statement is, when you need one, and how it affects your tenders.
If you are new to compliance requirements in bidding, our overview of the Procurement Act 2023 gives you the wider context.
What is a modern slavery statement?
A modern slavery statement describes the actions your organisation takes to identify, prevent and address modern slavery risks. Modern slavery is an umbrella term covering slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking. The statement typically explains your policies, your due diligence, your risk assessment, and the training you provide to staff.
In law, the basis is Section 54 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015. It requires commercial organisations with an annual turnover of £36 million or more, carrying on business in the UK, to publish an annual statement. Smaller organisations are not legally required to publish one — but many still do, because buyers increasingly ask for it.
How modern slavery affects public sector tenders
Meanwhile, government uses its buying power to drive out modern slavery, and the rules have tightened. The relevant policy is now PPN 009, “Tackling Modern Slavery in Government Supply Chains”. PPN 009 is the updated version of the earlier PPN 02/23, renamed in February 2025 to align with the Procurement Act 2023.
Under this policy, buyers take a risk-based approach. For procurements assessed as high risk of modern slavery, suppliers must provide supply chain information at the selection stage. Certain sectors are treated as higher risk, including construction, manufacturing, electronics, and health and social care. So the more your sector or supply chain carries risk, the more scrutiny you should expect.
Modern slavery and supplier exclusion
This is where the stakes are highest. A conviction for a modern slavery offence is a mandatory ground for exclusion from a regulated procurement. Evidence of modern slavery without a conviction can be a discretionary ground for exclusion. In serious cases, a supplier can even be placed on the central debarment list.
In other words, weak modern slavery practices are not just a scoring issue — they can remove you from the process entirely. To understand how exclusion works, read our guide to the debarment regime under the Procurement Act 2023.
What buyers look for in your tender
In practice, when modern slavery is relevant to a contract, evaluators want evidence, not assurances. To respond well, you should be ready to show:
- A published statement or policy. Even if you are below the £36 million threshold, a clear policy signals maturity.
- Risk assessment. Evidence that you understand where the risks sit in your supply chain.
- Due diligence. The checks you run on suppliers and subcontractors.
- Remediation. A plan for what you would do if modern slavery were identified.
- Training. How your staff are equipped to spot and report concerns.
Because buyers must stay proportionate, smaller suppliers should not be over-burdened. Even so, a well-prepared response reassures the buyer and strengthens your overall bid. It also complements your wider responsible-business credentials, such as your social value commitments.
How to prepare a strong modern slavery response
To prepare well, start by publishing a clear statement, even a proportionate one, on your website. Map your supply chain to understand where risks concentrate. Put simple due diligence and training in place, and keep records. Then, when a tender asks about modern slavery, you can respond with evidence rather than promises. A professional bid writer can help you present this material persuasively.
Frequently asked questions
Who legally needs a modern slavery statement?
Commercial organisations with an annual turnover of £36 million or more, carrying on business in the UK, must publish an annual modern slavery statement under Section 54 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015.
Do small businesses need a modern slavery statement to bid?
Not legally, if they are below the £36 million threshold. However, buyers increasingly ask about modern slavery, especially in high-risk sectors, so a proportionate policy or statement is strongly advisable.
Can modern slavery lead to exclusion from a tender?
Yes. A conviction for a modern slavery offence is a mandatory exclusion ground. Evidence without a conviction can be a discretionary ground, and serious cases can lead to debarment.
What is PPN 009?
PPN 009 is the government policy “Tackling Modern Slavery in Government Supply Chains”. It is the updated version of PPN 02/23, renamed in February 2025 to align with the Procurement Act 2023.
Bid with confidence on modern slavery
A clear modern slavery statement protects your eligibility and strengthens your bids. If you would like help preparing or presenting one, our team can support you. Get in touch with Together: The Hudson Collective to start winning more, faster.
Source: GOV.UK — PPN 009. This article is for general guidance and does not constitute legal advice.