Modern Slavery & Human Trafficking Policy

Statement of Intent

ADL maintains a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, forced labor, human trafficking, and exploitation in all its forms. As an organisation facilitating international athletic pathways, showcases, trials, and scholarship placements for young athletes, ADL recognises that the sports and recruitment sectors present specific risks regarding labor exploitation, illegal recruitment practices, and human trafficking. ADL is dedicated to enforcing robust safeguards to prevent, detect, and eradicate exploitation across its operations and global supply chains.

1. Fair Recruitment & Anti-Trafficking Standards

• —Zero placement fees - ADL never charges hidden fees, illegal recruitment levies, or financial bonds to young athletes or their families in exchange for trial opportunities or scholarship placements.
• —Document retention integrity - staff are strictly prohibited from confiscating, withholding, or taking permanent possession of an athlete's or employee's passport, travel documentation, or identification card.
• —Freedom of movement - participants and staff retain full freedom of movement and may withdraw from a programme or employment in accordance with agreed contractual notice periods.

2. Supply Chain & Partner Due Diligence

• —Host academies & universities must demonstrate compliance with local labor and child protection laws.
• —Transport & accommodation providers are vetted to ensure staff are employed under fair working conditions and paid legal minimum wages.
• —Sub-contracted scouts & agencies must sign ADL's Anti-Slavery Agreement confirming they do not engage in human trafficking or exploitative recruitment practices.

Indicators & Red Flags

• —Document control - an individual does not hold their own passport; documents are held by a third-party agent.
• —Financial control - an individual has no access to their earnings or allowance; debt bondage or inflated "trial fees".
• —Physical & behavioural - signs of physical neglect, fatigue, fear, or anxiety; unable to speak freely without a handler present.
• —Living conditions - overcrowded, substandard, or unsanitary housing provided by an employer or third party.

Reporting a Concern

Any suspicion, allegation, or indicator of modern slavery or human trafficking must be reported immediately. Anyone who reports a concern in good faith is fully protected against retaliation under ADL's Complaints & Whistleblowing Policy. UK Modern Slavery & Exploitation Helpline: 08000 121 700. Unseen UK (online reporting): unseenuk.org.

Policy Governance

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, volunteers, and international partners, and is reviewed annually by the Board of Directors to adapt to emerging global trafficking trends and legislative updates.