Storage Whitton Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Storage Whitton in respect of the financial year ending 31 December and sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Storage Whitton is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and in full compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Storage Whitton has a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking in all their forms, including forced labour, bonded labour, servitude, child labour, and all forms of exploitation. We will not knowingly work with any organisation or individual that engages in, or is complicit in, such practices. Our expectation is that all employees, contractors, suppliers, and business partners uphold the same high standards and demonstrate an unwavering commitment to human rights and fair working practices.
All individuals working for or with Storage Whitton are required to act with integrity and to report any concerns relating to modern slavery. Breaches of this policy may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts, and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.
Our Operations and Supply Chain
Storage Whitton operates storage and related services, relying on a network of suppliers providing property services, maintenance, cleaning, security, utilities, equipment, and professional services. While we consider our own direct operations to be at relatively low risk of modern slavery, we recognise that risks can arise in extended supply chains, particularly where there are complex subcontracting arrangements or where goods and services originate from higher risk sectors or jurisdictions.
We are committed to identifying, assessing, and mitigating these risks through appropriate due diligence, ongoing monitoring, and a culture of transparency and accountability.
Supplier Standards and Due Diligence
Storage Whitton expects all suppliers to operate in accordance with our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery and to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights legislation. As part of our supplier onboarding process, we assess key suppliers for ethical and labour practices and seek assurances that they do not tolerate forced or exploitative labour.
Where appropriate, we seek contractual commitments from suppliers confirming compliance with modern slavery legislation and our ethical standards. We reserve the right to request further information, including evidence of policies and procedures that address labour standards, working conditions, and worker welfare.
Supplier Audits and Monitoring
To support our due diligence efforts, Storage Whitton conducts periodic supplier audits and reviews. These may include documentation checks, requests for supporting evidence, and, where justified by risk, on-site visits conducted either by us or by independent assessors. Audits consider working hours, wages, recruitment practices, use of subcontractors, and grievance mechanisms, as well as evidence of any indicators of forced or exploitative labour.
Where concerns are identified, we engage with the supplier to develop corrective action plans and timelines. Failure to address identified issues or evidence of involvement in modern slavery may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing
Storage Whitton is committed to fostering an environment in which employees, contractors, and other stakeholders can raise concerns about modern slavery without fear of retaliation. Concerns can be reported through internal management channels or via the company whistleblowing procedure. Reports may be made confidentially and will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively.
We encourage anyone who becomes aware of potential modern slavery in our operations or supply chain to speak up. Where appropriate, we may also escalate matters to relevant authorities or industry bodies to help ensure that victims are protected and supported.
Training and Awareness
Relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, supplier management, and site operations, are provided with guidance on identifying the signs of modern slavery and on following our reporting procedures. We aim to increase awareness across our workforce so that potential risks can be recognised and addressed at an early stage.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Storage Whitton is committed to continuous improvement in the identification, prevention, and mitigation of modern slavery risks. This Modern Slavery Statement and the associated policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, business activities, or identified risks.
As part of the annual review process, we assess the effectiveness of our due diligence, supplier audits, training, and reporting mechanisms. We then update our practices and objectives as necessary to strengthen our approach. This Statement has been approved by the leadership of Storage Whitton, who accept overall responsibility for ensuring that the company upholds its obligations and commitments in relation to modern slavery and human trafficking.
