Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps Storage Woodford has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business operations and supply chains. Storage Woodford is committed to operating ethically, responsibly, and transparently in all of our activities, and to upholding the fundamental human rights of everyone who works with or for us.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
Storage Woodford maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This includes forced labour, debt bondage, servitude, child labour, and any exploitation of vulnerable individuals. We expect the same high standards from all those we work with, including employees, contractors, suppliers, and other business partners.
Our zero-tolerance stance is reflected in our internal policies, employment practices, and contractual terms with suppliers. Any actual or suspected breach is treated as a serious matter and may result in the termination of business relationships and, where appropriate, notification to relevant authorities.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Storage Woodford provides storage and related services. Our supply chain includes providers of facilities management, security, cleaning, equipment, maintenance, professional services, and other operational support. While we consider our sector to be at relatively low risk of modern slavery, we recognise that no organisation is immune and remain vigilant in our oversight of suppliers and partners.
Due Diligence and Supplier Audits
To uphold our zero-tolerance policy, Storage Woodford applies a risk-based approach to due diligence on suppliers and contractors. New suppliers are required to confirm that they comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights legislation and that they do not tolerate modern slavery or human trafficking in their operations or supply chains.
Where we identify higher-risk categories or geographies, we may carry out more detailed checks, including requests for supporting documentation or evidence of their own modern slavery policies. We seek contractual assurances from suppliers that they have procedures in place to prevent forced labour and exploitation in their own supply chains.
Storage Woodford also conducts periodic supplier audits or reviews, either remotely or on site where appropriate. These audits assess compliance with our ethical standards and may include interviews, document reviews, and checks on labour practices. Non-compliance triggers corrective action plans, and ongoing non-conformance can result in suspension or termination of the relationship.
Training, Awareness and Responsibilities
Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery approach rests with senior management, who ensure that appropriate resources are dedicated to implementation and continuous improvement. Relevant managers are briefed on the indicators of modern slavery and on how to escalate any concerns.
We are committed to increasing staff awareness of modern slavery risks through guidance and training appropriate to their role. Employees involved in procurement and supplier management receive targeted information on assessing suppliers, identifying warning signs, and applying our due diligence processes.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Storage Woodford encourages anyone working for or with us to report any concerns or suspicions related to modern slavery or human trafficking. We provide clear internal routes for raising concerns, including reporting to line managers or senior management. Concerns may also be raised anonymously in accordance with our whistleblowing principles, and we do not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who report issues in good faith.
All reports of potential modern slavery are taken seriously, reviewed promptly, and investigated where necessary. Where appropriate, we will work with external advisors and relevant authorities to address and remedy any identified issues.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Storage Woodford is committed to continually improving our approach to identifying, preventing, and addressing modern slavery risks. We review our policies, controls, and supplier management processes on a regular basis to ensure that they remain effective and proportionate to the risks faced.
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed annually by senior management. The review considers changes in our operations, findings from supplier audits, feedback from employees, and any incidents or alerts reported through our channels. Where improvements are identified, we update our procedures and communicate these changes across the business and to relevant suppliers.
This statement reflects the position and actions of Storage Woodford for the most recent financial year and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to combating modern slavery and human trafficking in all areas of our business.
