Storage East Barnet Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Storage East Barnet in respect of the financial year ending 31 December and outlines our commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. Storage East Barnet recognises that modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business dealings and relationships, and to implementing effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery does not occur in our own business or in any of our supply chains.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Storage East Barnet operates storage facilities and related services. Our supply chains include providers of facility management, maintenance, security, cleaning services, office equipment, packaging materials, and other professional services. We recognise that certain parts of our supply chain may carry higher risks, particularly where goods or services are sourced through multiple tiers or from sectors known to be vulnerable to labour exploitation.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
Storage East Barnet has a clear zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. This applies to all persons working for or on behalf of Storage East Barnet, in any capacity. We expect the same high standards from all of our contractors, suppliers, and other business partners. Our contracts and supplier expectations clearly state that we will not knowingly work with any organisation involved in, or turning a blind eye to, modern slavery in any form.
Where we identify a risk or suspicion of modern slavery, we will act promptly. This may include suspending or terminating relationships with suppliers or contractors who fail to meet our standards or who are unwilling to implement corrective measures.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We are committed to embedding respect for human rights in our procurement and supplier management processes. As part of our supplier due diligence, we assess potential and existing suppliers against our ethical requirements. We prioritise scrutiny of suppliers operating in sectors or regions considered higher risk for labour exploitation.
Storage East Barnet conducts periodic audits and reviews of key suppliers. These may include requesting evidence of labour practices, codes of conduct, and policies dealing with modern slavery and human rights. Where appropriate, we may request written confirmations that suppliers comply with relevant labour and human rights legislation and do not engage in modern slavery. Where non-compliance or significant risk factors are identified, we will work with the supplier on corrective action plans or, where necessary, seek alternative suppliers.
Training and Awareness
We recognise that preventing modern slavery requires ongoing awareness and vigilance. Storage East Barnet provides guidance and information to relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, facilities management, and supplier relationships. This includes raising awareness of the signs of modern slavery, explaining our policies, and clarifying how concerns should be reported and escalated.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Storage East Barnet encourages all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions regarding modern slavery or human trafficking in our business or supply chains. Concerns can be raised through established internal reporting channels or via our whistleblowing procedures. Reports can be made confidentially, and we do not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith.
All reports will be taken seriously and investigated as appropriate. Where necessary, we will involve relevant authorities or specialist organisations to ensure that any victims of exploitation receive suitable support and protection.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Storage East Barnet is committed to continuous improvement in identifying, assessing, and mitigating the risks of modern slavery. We review the effectiveness of our policies, procedures, and controls on a regular basis and seek opportunities to strengthen them. This statement, along with our related internal policies, is reviewed at least annually by senior management to ensure it remains current, robust, and aligned with best practice and evolving legal requirements.
Following each annual review, we update our actions and priorities for the coming year, taking account of any incidents, audit findings, changes in our operations or supply chains, and developments in guidance on combating modern slavery. This statement has been approved by the leadership of Storage East Barnet, who are responsible for ensuring its implementation and oversight across the business.
