Modern Slavery Statement for Storage North Woolwich
Storage North Woolwich is committed to conducting its business ethically, responsibly, and in full compliance with applicable laws on modern slavery and human trafficking. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent, identify, and address risks of modern slavery within our operations and supply chains.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
We operate a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, and child labour. This applies to every aspect of our business, including the operation of our storage facilities and all procurement of goods and services. We expect the same high standards from everyone we work with, including contractors, suppliers, and other business partners.
Any form of coercion, exploitation, or abuse of vulnerable individuals is fundamentally incompatible with our values. We reserve the right to terminate relationships with any supplier or partner that is found to be involved in, or turning a blind eye to, modern slavery or related practices.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Storage North Woolwich provides storage facilities and related services. Our supply chain includes, but is not limited to, building and maintenance contractors, security providers, cleaning and waste management services, utilities, and suppliers of equipment and consumables. We recognise that modern slavery risks can exist in any industry and geographical area, and we take proportionate, risk-based measures to reduce these risks within our supply chain.
Supplier Standards and Due Diligence
All new suppliers and key contractors are expected to agree to our ethical standards as a condition of doing business with Storage North Woolwich. During onboarding, we assess suppliers for potential modern slavery risks, taking into account sector, geography, and the nature of the services or products supplied.
We require suppliers to maintain policies and procedures that prohibit modern slavery and to comply with all relevant legislation. Where appropriate, we seek confirmation that suppliers have their own modern slavery statements and that they cascade similar standards throughout their own supply chains.
Supplier Audits and Monitoring
We carry out proportionate audits and reviews of selected suppliers, focusing on those assessed as higher risk. These audits may include reviewing policies, staff training records, employment practices, and relevant documentation relating to working hours, pay, and right-to-work checks.
If concerns or potential non-compliance are identified, we engage with the supplier to investigate, seek corrective action, and monitor progress. Where serious or persistent issues are found, we may suspend or terminate the business relationship in line with our zero-tolerance stance.
Reporting Concerns and Speaking Up
We encourage all employees, contractors, and suppliers to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery at the earliest opportunity. Concerns can be raised through existing management channels, internal reporting procedures, or directly to senior management. Reports may be made anonymously where permitted by local practice.
All reports are taken seriously and investigated promptly, with appropriate action taken where necessary. We do not tolerate retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith, and we are committed to protecting those who speak up.
Training and Awareness
We provide relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, facilities management, and supplier oversight, with training and guidance on identifying signs of modern slavery and how to respond to concerns. We aim to build ongoing awareness of ethical sourcing and respect for human rights across our business.
Governance and Accountability
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with senior management at Storage North Woolwich. They ensure that appropriate policies, procedures, and controls are in place and that these are reviewed and updated as needed. Departmental managers are responsible for implementing these measures within their areas of responsibility and for supporting staff to comply with our standards.
Annual Review and Continuous Improvement
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually to assess its effectiveness and to identify opportunities for improvement. As part of this review, we consider any changes in legislation, best practice guidance, audit findings, and feedback from staff and suppliers.
Where necessary, we will enhance our due diligence processes, update supplier requirements, and strengthen training and awareness activities. Our objective is to continuously improve our ability to prevent, detect, and address any risk of modern slavery in our operations and supply chains.
This Statement has been approved by the management of Storage North Woolwich and reflects our commitment to uphold human dignity and fair treatment for all individuals connected with our business.
