Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Storage Kingston upon Thames 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 business operations and supply chains. Storage Kingston upon Thames is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard against any form of modern slavery.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Storage Kingston upon Thames operates a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and all forms of exploitation. We expect the same high standards from all our suppliers, contractors, and business partners. We will not knowingly enter into relationships with any organisation that fails to uphold these principles or that is unwilling to provide adequate assurances and transparency regarding its own practices.
Our policy framework is designed to ensure that respect for human rights and fair working conditions forms an integral part of how we conduct our storage services, manage our facilities, and work with third parties. This commitment is supported and endorsed by senior management, who are responsible for ensuring that appropriate resources and oversight are in place.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Storage Kingston upon Thames operates storage facilities and related services, relying on a range of suppliers for goods and services such as building maintenance, security, cleaning, utilities, equipment, and professional support. These relationships create potential points of risk within our supply chain, which we actively manage through due diligence processes and ongoing monitoring.
We recognise that modern slavery can occur in any sector and jurisdiction, particularly where there is a lack of transparency or oversight. We therefore seek to identify and prioritise higher-risk areas within our supply chain and apply targeted controls where they are most needed.
Supplier Standards and Audits
All suppliers and contractors engaged by Storage Kingston upon Thames are required to comply with applicable laws on labour, employment, and human rights. We seek contractual assurances that suppliers prohibit the use of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour and that they provide safe working conditions, fair wages, and lawful working hours.
We undertake proportionate supplier audits and assessments, focusing on those suppliers that operate in higher-risk sectors or locations. These audits may include requesting documentation, conducting site visits where appropriate, and reviewing a supplier's own policies and procedures relating to modern slavery. Where concerns are identified, we will work with suppliers to develop corrective action plans or, where necessary, consider ending the business relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Storage Kingston upon Thames encourages a culture of openness, where concerns relating to modern slavery, exploitation, or unethical behaviour can be raised without fear of retaliation. Team members, contractors, and suppliers are encouraged to report any suspected instances of modern slavery or human trafficking through established internal reporting routes or directly to senior management.
All reports are treated seriously and investigated promptly and sensitively. We will take appropriate action in response to substantiated concerns, which may include notifying relevant authorities and cooperating fully with any external investigations. We are committed to ensuring that nobody raising a concern in good faith suffers any form of detrimental treatment as a result.
Training and Awareness
We recognise that raising awareness is key to identifying and preventing modern slavery. Storage Kingston upon Thames provides guidance and, where relevant, training to colleagues who are involved in supplier selection, contract management, and facility operations so that they understand the signs of modern slavery and know how to respond.
We aim to embed an understanding of modern slavery risks into our everyday decision-making and encourage colleagues to remain alert to potential issues within our operations and supply chain.
Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review
This statement is reviewed at least once every year and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, our business activities, and best practice. The annual review is overseen by senior management, who assess the effectiveness of our policies, supplier due diligence, and reporting mechanisms.
Storage Kingston upon Thames is committed to continual improvement in our efforts to combat modern slavery and human trafficking. We will refine our risk assessment processes, strengthen supplier engagement, and enhance training as needed to ensure our approach remains robust, effective, and aligned with our values. This statement has been approved by the leadership of Storage Kingston upon Thames and will be made available to all colleagues, suppliers, and stakeholders.
