Storage West Wickham Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Storage West Wickham to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to act ethically and with integrity in all business relationships, and to implement effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery is not taking place anywhere in our business activities.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Approach
Storage West Wickham adopts a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, child labour, servitude, and human trafficking. We expect the same high standards from all those with whom we work, including employees, contractors, suppliers, and business partners. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in termination of contracts or other appropriate action.
Our management team is responsible for promoting a culture of compliance and ethical conduct, ensuring that our zero-tolerance approach is embedded across the business and understood by everyone who works for or with us.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Storage West Wickham operates within the storage and related services sector. Our supply chains include providers of goods and services such as property maintenance, security, cleaning, utilities, equipment, and professional services. We acknowledge that certain areas of our supply chain may present a higher risk of modern slavery, particularly where subcontracted labour or international sourcing is involved.
We seek to build long-term relationships with reputable suppliers and to work only with organisations that share our commitment to preventing modern slavery and protecting human rights.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
To reduce the risk of modern slavery in our supply chains, Storage West Wickham undertakes proportionate due diligence on new and existing suppliers. This may include reviewing supplier policies on labour practices, health and safety, and ethical conduct, as well as assessing their own supply chain controls.
We reserve the right to conduct audits or request evidence from suppliers to demonstrate compliance with applicable labour laws and our modern slavery standards. Where appropriate, these audits may be carried out on-site or through structured questionnaires and documentation reviews. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to meet our expectations, we will work with them to address shortcomings, and if necessary, reconsider the business relationship.
Policies, Training, and Awareness
Our internal policies, including those covering recruitment, equal opportunities, health and safety, and whistleblowing, are designed to protect workers and promote a safe, fair, and respectful workplace. Recruitment processes require appropriate checks to verify the identity and right to work of employees and to ensure that employment is freely chosen.
We provide guidance to relevant employees on identifying indicators of modern slavery and understanding their responsibilities. This includes raising awareness of risk factors in higher-risk roles, such as procurement and facilities management, and ensuring staff know how to escalate concerns.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Storage West Wickham encourages anyone who works for us, supplies us, or otherwise engages with our business to report any concerns related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised confidentially through our management team or via established internal reporting mechanisms.
We are committed to ensuring that individuals who report concerns in good faith do not suffer any form of retaliation or detrimental treatment. All reports are taken seriously, treated sensitively, and investigated promptly, with appropriate remedial action taken where necessary.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires continuous improvement. Storage West Wickham is committed to regularly reviewing and enhancing our policies, risk assessments, and due diligence procedures to ensure they remain effective and proportionate to the risks we face.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every year by our management team. As part of the annual review, we consider feedback from staff and suppliers, changes in relevant legislation and guidance, and any incidents or concerns raised. Where necessary, we update our approach and communicate any changes to employees and key suppliers.
This Statement is approved by the management of Storage West Wickham and constitutes our Modern Slavery Statement for the relevant financial year.
