Storage St Mary Cray Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Storage St Mary Cray to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to act ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implement effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery is not taking place anywhere in or connected to our organisation.
Modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights and includes slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking. Storage St Mary Cray is committed to playing its part in eliminating these abuses and expects the same commitment from all parties with whom we work.
Zero-Tolerance Policy
Storage St Mary Cray adopts a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, company, or organisation involved in or benefiting from any form of modern slavery. This zero-tolerance policy applies to all employees, agency staff, contractors, suppliers, and business partners, regardless of their location or the nature of their relationship with us.
We are committed to ensuring that our business practices reflect our values. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in immediate termination of contracts, disciplinary action, or notification to the appropriate authorities where warranted.
Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits
Our supply chain includes providers of storage-related products, maintenance services, facilities management, and professional services. We aim to work only with organisations that share our commitment to ethical conduct and respect for human rights.
All new suppliers are assessed against our ethical standards as part of our onboarding process. This assessment includes a review of their policies, procedures, and any available information relating to labour practices and human rights. Suppliers are required to confirm that they do not use forced, bonded, or involuntary labour and that they comply with all applicable labour and human rights legislation.
We undertake periodic supplier audits, which may be carried out through questionnaires, documentation reviews, or site visits where appropriate and proportionate to the risk. These audits are designed to identify potential issues, verify compliance with our standards, and promote continuous improvement. Where concerns are identified, we will seek prompt corrective action. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to address these concerns, we reserve the right to reconsider or terminate the business relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Storage St Mary Cray encourages a culture of openness and accountability. Employees, contractors, and third parties are encouraged to raise concerns at the earliest possible stage if they believe that any form of modern slavery is occurring in our operations or supply chains.
Concerns can be reported to line managers, senior management, or through internal whistleblowing channels where available. Reports may be made confidentially and will be treated seriously and sensitively. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith, even if it is not ultimately substantiated.
All reports of suspected modern slavery will be investigated promptly and, where appropriate, referred to external authorities. We will take any necessary remedial actions arising from such investigations and review our processes to prevent recurrence.
Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement
We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery among our staff so that they can recognise the signs of exploitation and understand how to respond. Training is provided to relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, facilities management, and supplier engagement.
Modern slavery considerations are integrated into our risk management and procurement processes. We regularly review guidance, legislation, and industry practices to strengthen our approach and improve the effectiveness of our controls.
Annual Review and Approval
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. The review considers changes in our operations, supply chains, risk profile, and any issues identified during audits, investigations, or staff feedback.
Updates arising from the annual review may include revised policies, enhanced training, additional audit activity, or changes to supplier requirements. Our commitment to continuous improvement means we will adapt our approach as necessary to reduce the risk of modern slavery and to promote ethical and responsible business conduct throughout Storage St Mary Cray and its supply base.
This statement has been approved by the leadership of Storage St Mary Cray and represents our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our business.
