Modern Slavery Statement for Woodford Storage

Woodford Storage is committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to help prevent slavery, servitude, forced labour, and human trafficking in our operations and supply chain. We recognise that the risk of exploitation can exist in any sector, and we maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of modern slavery. Our approach is based on vigilance, accountability, and continuous improvement.

As part of our commitment, Woodford Storage expects all employees, contractors, and business partners to uphold the highest ethical standards. We do not accept abusive recruitment practices, debt bondage, withheld wages, or any other practice that undermines personal freedom. This statement reinforces our responsibility to identify and address risks across our activities and to act promptly if concerns arise.

We work to ensure that our governance arrangements support transparency and responsible decision-making. Senior management reviews modern slavery risks and monitors the effectiveness of our controls. Internal policies are designed to promote fair treatment, lawful employment practices, and respect for individual dignity. In this way, the Woodford Storage modern slavery policy is embedded into everyday business conduct.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

We expect suppliers to share our values and demonstrate compliance with relevant labour and human rights laws. Before engaging new suppliers, we carry out proportionate due diligence to assess risk factors such as geography, labour sourcing, subcontracting, and the nature of services provided. Where appropriate, we request declarations, review policy documents, and seek evidence of ethical employment practices.

Supplier audits are an important part of our oversight framework. These audits may include document checks, on-site visits, and targeted reviews of labour practices where risk indicators are identified. If a supplier fails to meet our standards, we seek corrective action within a defined timeframe. Where improvement is not achieved, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship. This helps safeguard the integrity of the Woodford Storage supply chain.

We also expect suppliers to maintain appropriate controls within their own supply networks. The responsibility to prevent exploitation does not end at the first tier. By promoting contractual obligations, regular monitoring, and clear expectations, we aim to reduce the likelihood that modern slavery could occur in the services or materials we procure.

Reporting Concerns and Taking Action

Woodford Storage encourages all workers and stakeholders to report any concern related to suspected modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Reporting channels are made available through internal management routes and established whistleblowing procedures. Concerns are handled seriously, discreetly, and without retaliation. Any allegation is reviewed promptly so that facts can be established and appropriate action taken.

When a concern is raised, we assess the risk, gather relevant information, and determine whether immediate safeguarding measures are required. This may include escalating the issue to leadership, reviewing supplier records, or carrying out further investigation. If exploitation is suspected, we will cooperate with the relevant authorities and ensure that our response prioritises the safety and rights of affected individuals.

Training and awareness are also essential. Employees with procurement or operational responsibilities receive guidance on identifying warning signs, documenting concerns, and escalating matters appropriately. By strengthening awareness, Woodford Storage increases the likelihood that potential issues are identified early and addressed responsibly.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with legal obligations and business activity. The annual review considers changes in operational risk, supplier performance, audit findings, and reported concerns. Where opportunities for improvement are identified, we update our controls, policies, and training accordingly.

We recognise that preventing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility rather than a one-time exercise. For that reason, Woodford Storage will continue to refine its due diligence, strengthen supplier oversight, and promote ethical conduct across the organisation. We aim to build a culture in which respect for human rights is embedded in decisions at every level.

In summary, Woodford Storage maintains a clear commitment to preventing modern slavery in all its forms. Through our zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, reporting channels, and annual review process, we seek to uphold ethical standards and protect vulnerable people from exploitation. This statement reflects our continuing resolve to act responsibly and transparently.