Storage Barking Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps taken by Storage Barking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Storage Barking recognises its responsibility to uphold and promote human rights, and we are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business relationships.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Storage Barking has a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with or support any organisation involved in such practices. This commitment applies to all employees, agency staff, contractors, and suppliers engaged by Storage Barking.
We expect everyone working with or on behalf of Storage Barking to share our commitment to lawful and ethical conduct. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may lead to termination of contracts or employment, as appropriate.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Storage Barking operates storage and related services, working with a range of suppliers including facility management, security, cleaning, maintenance, equipment, and professional services. We recognise that modern slavery risks can exist at various points in supply chains, particularly where there are complex subcontracting arrangements or international sourcing of goods and materials.
We are committed to developing and maintaining transparent relationships with suppliers and seeking assurances that they operate to high ethical standards and comply with all relevant legislation on modern slavery and human rights.
Supplier Standards and Due Diligence
Storage Barking seeks to work only with suppliers who can demonstrate a clear commitment to preventing modern slavery. As part of our due diligence process, we assess new and existing suppliers based on ethical and social responsibility criteria. Where necessary, we may request documentation or statements that describe the supplier’s own modern slavery controls and policies.
Contracts with key suppliers include expectations relating to compliance with applicable laws, including laws addressing modern slavery, forced labour, and human trafficking. We reserve the right to review and, if required, terminate relationships with suppliers who fail to meet these standards or who do not take adequate steps to address identified risks.
Supplier Audits and Monitoring
Storage Barking uses proportionate risk-based auditing and monitoring of suppliers, focusing on those areas where the risk of modern slavery is considered higher. This may include on-site visits, document reviews, and discussions about labour practices, recruitment processes, and worker welfare.
Where risks are identified, we work collaboratively with suppliers to encourage corrective actions and improvements. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to address significant concerns within a reasonable timeframe, we may discontinue the business relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels
Storage Barking encourages all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business or supply chains. Concerns can be reported through line managers or senior management, or via internal whistleblowing procedures that allow individuals to raise issues in confidence.
We are committed to ensuring that no one who raises a concern in good faith suffers any form of retaliation or detrimental treatment. All reports are taken seriously, investigated appropriately, and where necessary, actions are taken to address and resolve the issues identified.
Training and Awareness
Storage Barking is working to raise awareness of modern slavery risks among relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, facilities management, and supplier relationships. Training and guidance are provided so that employees can recognise indicators of exploitation and understand how to respond and report concerns effectively.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that addressing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility and that our practices must evolve as risks and best practices develop. Storage Barking is committed to continuous improvement of our approach to human rights and labour standards.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by senior management to assess its effectiveness and to consider whether additional measures are required. Updates may include enhanced supplier requirements, revised risk assessments, extended training, or strengthened reporting mechanisms. The latest version of this statement is made available to employees, suppliers, and other interested parties on request.
This statement has been approved by the management of Storage Barking, who retain overall responsibility for ensuring its implementation and effectiveness.
