Modern Slavery Statement for Barking Storage

Barking Storage is committed to conducting business with integrity, dignity, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the principles and controls we apply to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitative working practices in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery can affect any sector, and we maintain a clear zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of exploitation.

Our commitment applies to every part of the business, including hiring, procurement, site operations, and contractor engagement. We expect all employees, agency workers, suppliers, and business partners to act lawfully and ethically. Safeguarding people is integral to how Barking Storage operates, and we will not knowingly work with any party that fails to meet these standards.

This statement is supported by our internal policies and procedures, which promote fair treatment, lawful employment, and transparent decision-making. We seek to identify and manage risk through due diligence, training, and ongoing oversight. Where concerns arise, we respond promptly and proportionately, with the aim of protecting individuals and preventing recurrence.

To reduce risk within our supply chain, Barking Storage carries out supplier screening and proportionate supplier audits. These checks may include reviewing labour practices, right-to-work controls, employment records, and compliance history. High-risk relationships are subject to increased scrutiny, and we reserve the right to request evidence, conduct site visits, or suspend engagement where standards are not met.

Our procurement process is designed to support responsible sourcing. Suppliers are expected to confirm that they do not use forced, bonded, or child labour, and that workers are treated fairly and paid appropriately. We also expect suppliers to apply these standards to their own subcontractors. Compliance is not optional; it is a condition of doing business with us.

Training and awareness are essential to recognising risk. Staff involved in recruitment, operations, and purchasing receive guidance on identifying warning signs such as restricted movement, withheld documents, debt bondage, or signs of coercion. By strengthening awareness, Barking Storage improves its ability to detect and address potential abuses before they escalate.

We provide multiple reporting channels so employees and contractors can raise concerns safely and without fear of retaliation. Reports may be made to managers, senior leadership, or designated internal safeguarding contacts through formal internal procedures. Concerns can be raised confidentially, and all disclosures are handled sensitively, with appropriate action taken in line with the seriousness of the issue.

Anyone who reports concerns in good faith is protected from victimisation or disadvantage. We encourage prompt reporting, as early disclosure can help prevent harm and support effective investigation. Where a report indicates possible modern slavery, we will assess the situation quickly, preserve evidence, and cooperate with relevant authorities or specialist organisations as appropriate.

Our approach also includes keeping accurate records of procurement decisions, audit outcomes, and corrective actions. This allows Barking Storage to track performance over time and identify recurring risk areas. We view continuous improvement as essential to maintaining a robust modern slavery control framework.

Responsibility for oversight sits with senior management, who review policy effectiveness, audit findings, and reported incidents. Where a supplier or partner fails to meet our expectations, we may require immediate remediation, additional monitoring, or termination of the relationship. We aim to act fairly, but we will always prioritise the welfare and rights of workers.

We also recognise the importance of reviewing our controls regularly. This statement, along with associated procedures, will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains current, practical, and aligned with legal requirements and business developments. The annual review will consider new risks, audit outcomes, training needs, and any lessons learned from incidents or investigations.

Barking Storage remains committed to strengthening its response to modern slavery through vigilance, accountability, and practical action. By embedding ethical standards into our operations and supplier relationships, we aim to help prevent exploitation and promote respectful, lawful working conditions across our business.