Modern Slavery Statement for Storage Woodlands
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Storage Woodlands has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Storage Woodlands recognises that modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights and is committed to acting ethically, transparently, and with integrity in all business dealings.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
Storage Woodlands has a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, debt bondage, and child labour. This applies to every aspect of our business, regardless of location or function. We expect the same high standards from all our suppliers, contractors, and business partners and we will not knowingly work with any organisation involved in or associated with modern slavery practices.
Our leadership team is responsible for promoting a culture where exploitation is never accepted and where respect for human rights is a core principle. All managers are expected to ensure that team members understand our standards and know how to raise concerns.
Our Supply Chain and Supplier Expectations
Storage Woodlands works with a range of suppliers, including providers of materials, equipment, logistics, maintenance, and professional services. We recognise that certain sectors and regions may carry a higher risk of modern slavery and we take proportionate steps to assess and manage these risks.
Suppliers are required to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws and to uphold standards that are consistent with our own. We communicate our zero-tolerance stance to new and existing suppliers and reserve the right to terminate relationships where serious violations or repeated non-compliance occur.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
As part of our ongoing due diligence, Storage Woodlands conducts risk-based assessments of suppliers and contractors. Where higher risks are identified, we may require additional information, supporting documentation, or on-site verification to confirm working conditions and labour practices.
We undertake periodic supplier audits, either directly or through independent third parties, to monitor compliance with our ethical and labour standards. These audits may include reviewing employment records, interviewing workers, and examining health, safety, and welfare conditions. Where issues are found, we work with suppliers to agree corrective action plans and follow up to ensure that remediation is effective and sustained.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Storage Woodlands encourages all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to speak up if they have any concerns about modern slavery, exploitation, or unethical conduct connected to our business or supply chain.
Concerns can be raised through established internal reporting channels, including line managers and senior management. Individuals may also use our whistleblowing procedures, which allow concerns to be reported confidentially and without fear of retaliation. All reports are taken seriously and will be investigated promptly, fairly, and sensitively.
Where modern slavery is suspected or identified, Storage Woodlands will take immediate steps to protect affected individuals, work with relevant authorities where appropriate, and review our relationships with the parties involved.
Training and Awareness
We are committed to building awareness across our organisation so that modern slavery risks are recognised and addressed at every level. Relevant staff receive training on identifying indicators of modern slavery, understanding our policies, and using the reporting channels available. Procurement and management teams are provided with additional guidance on assessing supplier risks and responding to concerns.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Storage Woodlands acknowledges that combating modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility that requires continuous improvement. We regularly review our policies, due diligence processes, and supplier engagement practices to enhance their effectiveness.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually by the Storage Woodlands leadership team. The review considers changes in our operations, developments in legislation, stakeholder feedback, and any incidents or concerns raised during the year. Where necessary, we update our approach, strengthen controls, and set new objectives to further reduce the risk of modern slavery in our business and supply chains.
This Statement reflects the position of Storage Woodlands for the current financial year and has been approved by the senior management of the company.
