Modern Slavery Statement for Storage Barnet
This Modern Slavery Statement is made on behalf of Storage Barnet and sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. Storage Barnet recognises its responsibility to act ethically and with integrity in all business relationships and to implement systems and controls that guard against labour exploitation.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
Storage Barnet has a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour in any form. We are committed to ensuring that modern slavery does not take place in any part of our own operations or in our wider supply chain. All colleagues, contractors, and suppliers are expected to uphold this commitment and to act in accordance with our values and policies.
Any breach of this policy by an employee may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. For suppliers or contractors, breaches may result in suspension of work, termination of contracts, and reporting to the appropriate authorities where required.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Storage Barnet provides storage solutions and associated services. Our supply chain includes property and facility management services, maintenance contractors, cleaning and security providers, equipment and materials suppliers, and professional service providers. We recognise that some of these areas may carry a higher risk of labour exploitation, particularly where temporary, migrant, or low-paid labour may be involved.
We are committed to working only with suppliers and partners who share our stance on modern slavery and who can demonstrate robust employment practices and respect for human rights.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We carry out proportionate due diligence on new and existing suppliers to identify and manage the risk of modern slavery. This includes assessing the nature of the services provided, the geographical location of operations, and the structure of the workforce used to deliver those services.
Where we identify higher-risk activities, we undertake targeted supplier audits. These audits may include review of documentation such as right to work records, wage and working hour records, and subcontracting arrangements, as well as discussions with supplier management. Suppliers are expected to provide clear evidence that they comply with applicable labour laws and that they have their own measures in place to prevent modern slavery.
Failure to cooperate with our due diligence or to address identified concerns may result in the termination of a supplier relationship.
Training and Awareness
Storage Barnet is committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among relevant colleagues, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and facilities operations. Training and guidance are provided to help staff recognise warning signs of exploitation, understand our reporting channels, and follow our procedures when concerns arise.
We also communicate our expectations to suppliers, making it clear that they must uphold the same high standards and cascade these requirements through their own supply chains.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We encourage anyone who has concerns about potential modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to Storage Barnet, whether within our business or in our supply chains, to raise these concerns without delay.
Concerns can be raised through our internal reporting procedures or via our whistleblowing arrangements, which allow individuals to report issues in confidence. Reports may come from employees, agency workers, contractors, suppliers, or any other third parties. All reports are taken seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively, with appropriate steps taken to protect those who speak up from victimisation or retaliation.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Storage Barnet recognises that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires regular monitoring and improvement. We will review this Modern Slavery Statement and the effectiveness of our associated policies, procedures, and controls on an annual basis.
As part of this review, we will consider feedback from audits, supplier engagement, training activities, and any reported concerns. Where necessary, we will update our approach, strengthen our contract terms, enhance our due diligence processes, and refine our training and communication to ensure continuous improvement.
This Statement has been approved by the leadership of Storage Barnet and will be reviewed and updated each year to reflect our continued commitment to preventing modern slavery and protecting the rights and dignity of all workers connected to our operations.
