Storage South Woodford Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Storage South Woodford to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to upholding the highest ethical standards and ensuring that all people who work with or for us are treated with dignity and respect.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Storage South Woodford has a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships. We expect the same standards from all suppliers, contractors, and business partners engaged with us.
Any actual or suspected instance of modern slavery connected to our business is treated as a serious breach of our values and policies. Where such concerns arise, we will respond promptly, investigate thoroughly, and take appropriate action, which may include terminating contracts or reporting concerns to relevant authorities.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Storage South Woodford operates storage facilities and related services. Our supply chains include providers of property maintenance, security, cleaning, equipment, and professional services. We recognise that certain sectors and geographies may present higher risks and we apply enhanced scrutiny to these areas where possible.
We aim to work with suppliers and partners who share our commitment to lawful and ethical employment practices and who can demonstrate compliance with applicable labour and human rights legislation.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We are progressively implementing supplier standards that set clear expectations regarding labour practices, working conditions, and human rights. These standards require suppliers to confirm that they do not use forced, bonded, or involuntary labour and that they respect the rights of workers to fair pay, safe working conditions, and freedom of movement.
Where appropriate and proportionate to the level of risk, we conduct or commission supplier audits, which may include reviewing documentation, policies, and worker conditions. If we identify non-compliance or areas of concern, we work with suppliers to agree corrective actions and deadlines. Continued non-compliance or failure to address identified issues can result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels
Storage South Woodford encourages all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns about modern slavery, exploitation, or unethical behaviour connected to our operations or supply chains. Concerns may include suspicious working conditions, signs of coercion, or any indication that individuals are not free to leave their employment.
Reports can be made through internal reporting channels made available to staff, or via established points of contact within our management team for external stakeholders. We handle all reports sensitively and in confidence where possible, and we do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith.
Training and Awareness
We are committed to building awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff. Where relevant, employees receive information on how to recognise indicators of modern slavery, how to raise concerns, and the importance of adhering to our zero-tolerance policy.
Managers responsible for procurement, supplier management, and facilities operations are expected to understand and apply our standards, including assessing the potential risk of modern slavery in their areas of responsibility.
Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review
Our approach to modern slavery risk is overseen by senior management, who are responsible for ensuring that our policies and procedures are implemented effectively. We keep records of identified risks, reported concerns, and any remedial actions taken to improve our controls.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to evaluate its effectiveness and to reflect any changes in our business, legal requirements, or best practice guidance. As part of this annual review, we assess the adequacy of our supplier audits, reporting channels, and training, and we identify opportunities to strengthen our approach.
By maintaining and regularly updating this Statement, Storage South Woodford reaffirms its commitment to combating modern slavery and promoting responsible, ethical practices throughout our operations and supply chains.
