Modern Slavery Statement for Storage Barnehurst
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Storage Barnehurst has taken, and continues to take, to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not taking place in our business or within our supply chains. Storage Barnehurst is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls that safeguard people from exploitation.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
Storage Barnehurst adopts a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. This position applies to every aspect of our operations, from the management of our storage facilities to the sourcing of goods and services that support our business.
All employees, contractors, and business partners are expected to uphold this policy. Any action or omission that facilitates, tolerates, or ignores exploitation is contrary to our values and will result in a decisive response, including termination of contracts or employment where appropriate.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Storage Barnehurst provides storage solutions to a diverse customer base. Our supply chains include providers of construction, maintenance, security, cleaning, utilities, equipment, and professional services. While the inherent risk of modern slavery in our sector may be considered moderate, we recognise that any supply chain can be exposed to hidden exploitation if it is not properly managed and monitored.
We are committed to understanding our supply chains and working closely with suppliers to reduce the risk of modern slavery, particularly in areas that may involve lower-skilled or subcontracted labour, manufacturing, or the provision of ancillary services.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers and contractors to share our commitment to respecting human rights and preventing modern slavery. Our supplier standards require that they comply with all applicable labour laws, prohibit forced or compulsory labour, prohibit child labour, provide safe working conditions, and treat workers with dignity and respect.
As part of our due diligence, Storage Barnehurst undertakes risk-based assessments of suppliers. Higher-risk suppliers may be asked to provide additional information on their labour practices, policies, and controls. Where appropriate, we conduct audits or request evidence of independent audits to verify compliance with labour, human rights, and health and safety standards.
If a supplier is found to be in breach of our requirements, we will work with them to address and remediate issues within a defined timeframe. Failure to demonstrate sufficient improvement or cooperation may result in the suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels
Storage Barnehurst encourages all employees, contractors, customers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions regarding modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to our operations or supply chains.
Reports can be made in person to a manager, to a senior member of the leadership team, or through any internal reporting channel made available within our business. Concerns will be treated seriously, assessed promptly, and handled as confidentially as practicable. No individual raising a concern in good faith will suffer any form of detrimental treatment as a result of speaking up.
Where there is reasonable suspicion of modern slavery or exploitation, Storage Barnehurst will act swiftly, which may include engaging with the relevant supplier, conducting additional investigations, and cooperating with appropriate external authorities as required.
Training and Awareness
We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our employees so they can recognise indicators of exploitation and understand how to respond. Relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, facilities management, and supplier engagement, will receive training on our zero-tolerance policy, due diligence procedures, and reporting mechanisms.
Our aim is to build a culture where ethical conduct and respect for human rights are embedded in everyday decisions and interactions with suppliers and partners.
Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior management of Storage Barnehurst. They review key risks, the effectiveness of our controls, and the outcomes of any investigations or supplier assessments conducted during the year.
This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and reflective of our evolving business and risk profile. As part of this annual review, we will evaluate the effectiveness of our policies, supplier audits, and training initiatives, and we will identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
Storage Barnehurst remains firmly committed to preventing modern slavery in all its forms and to working collaboratively with our employees, suppliers, and stakeholders to uphold human dignity and protect the rights of all workers connected to our operations.
