Modern Slavery Statement for Storage Woolwich
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Storage Woolwich has taken to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold the highest ethical standards and to ensure that all individuals who contribute to our business are treated with dignity and respect.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
Storage Woolwich operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, child labour and exploitative working conditions. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to prevent any occurrence of modern slavery in our own activities or in our supply chains.
All employees, agency workers, contractors and suppliers are expected to share this commitment. We will not knowingly engage with any party that is involved in, or complicit with, modern slavery or human trafficking practices, and we reserve the right to terminate relationships where our standards are not met.
Governance and Responsibilities
The senior management team at Storage Woolwich has overall responsibility for ensuring that this statement is implemented and maintained. Managers are responsible for promoting awareness of our modern slavery commitments within their teams and for escalating any concerns relating to potential breaches. All staff members are required to read and comply with this statement as part of their wider ethical and conduct obligations.
Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits
Our supply chain includes providers of storage equipment, maintenance services, security systems, cleaning, and other operational and professional services. We expect all suppliers to operate in full compliance with applicable labour, employment and human rights laws and to uphold equivalent standards to our own.
Storage Woolwich uses a risk-based approach to assessing suppliers. New suppliers are subject to pre-engagement due diligence to evaluate their labour practices, working conditions and compliance history. This may include reviewing policies, requesting written confirmations, and seeking evidence of their own modern slavery measures.
We conduct periodic supplier audits, which may be carried out on site or remotely, to confirm adherence to our standards. These audits can include interviews, document checks and reviews of workforce arrangements. Where areas for improvement are identified, we expect prompt corrective action. Continued non-compliance or refusal to cooperate with audits may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Employee Awareness, Training and Conduct
We provide guidance to employees on recognising the signs of modern slavery and their responsibilities to report any suspicions. Induction and periodic refresher information emphasise our zero-tolerance policy and the importance of ethical conduct in procurement and day-to-day operations.
All colleagues involved in supplier selection, contracting and management are expected to apply enhanced scrutiny to higher-risk categories and to escalate any concerns for further review. Breaches of this statement or related policies may lead to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or contract.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Storage Woolwich encourages anyone who becomes aware of, or suspects, any form of modern slavery connected to our business or supply chain to report their concerns without delay. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting channels, including line managers and senior management. Individuals are encouraged to provide as much detail as possible to enable a thorough assessment and appropriate response.
We are committed to ensuring that no one who raises a concern in good faith suffers any form of retaliation, victimisation or disadvantage. Reports will be handled sensitively, and, where appropriate, investigations will be undertaken promptly and confidentially. Where there is evidence of criminal activity, we will cooperate with law enforcement and relevant authorities.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Storage Woolwich recognises that preventing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We are committed to regularly reviewing and strengthening our processes, including supplier due diligence, audits, training and reporting mechanisms. Lessons learned from investigations, audits and industry developments are used to enhance our controls and mitigate emerging risks.
This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed, updated and approved by senior management on an annual basis to ensure that it remains current, effective and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. The revised statement will reflect any changes in our organisational structure, operations or risk profile and will reaffirm our enduring commitment to eradicating modern slavery in all its forms.
