Multi-stakeholder initiative SLCP has introduced an updated HRDD Toolkit to support stakeholders as they navigate mandatory human rights due diligence requirements.

This enhanced toolkit, which builds on the success of the first edition of the HRDD Toolkit from May 2023, aims to help companies integrate SLCP’s Converged Assessment Framework (CAF) into their compliance processes.

According to SLCP, in a fast-evolving regulatory landscape, many companies are seeking to better understand how they can identify, assess, prevent and mitigate their human rights impacts.

It pointed out that SLCP assessments provide credible and actionable data that can support companies to both identify human rights risks and track and monitor progress, adding that its HRDD Toolkit guides how the CAF is useful for these key due diligence steps.

SLCP explained the latest edition includes updates to all chapters to ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant. Additionally, it details how the CAF aligns with the new Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), as well as how it can add value for different supply chain actors, and how SLCP aligns with the key principles of HRDD.

SLCP believes that while the Toolkit sets out SLCP’s compatibility with emerging legislation in different jurisdictions – such as the CSDDD in the EU and the ban on forced labour in the USA – it also clarifies the limits of a broad social assessment and signposts where other actions are required to complete the due diligence cycle.

SLCP further added that the message is clear: "Responsibility to undertake HRDD rests squarely on the complying company and using SLCP is one of many measures companies can take to implement legislative obligations."

Speaking at the launch event in Amsterdam, SLCP CEO Janet Mensink emphasised the toolkit's role in helping stakeholders manage complex compliance demands: "In a fast-evolving regulatory landscape, our goal is to clarify how SLCP’s tools can support stakeholders by providing credible, actionable data for their due diligence activities. We believe the HRDD Toolkit will be a valuable asset for our partners."

Nikhil Hirdaramani, partner of the Hirdaramani Group and SLCP Board representative for manufacturers, highlighted the importance of reducing duplicative audits.

He said: "The rise in HRDD legislation presents an opportunity for lasting improvements in working conditions, but it’s essential we avoid overburdening manufacturers. The SLCP Toolkit will help companies see how existing tools can assist in fulfilling these responsibilities."

In May, SLCP shared as part of its third annual Impact Report that 74 brands, retailers and standard holders have now agreed to use its data instead of other audit tools.