Storage East Sheen Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Storage East Sheen in recognition of our responsibility to identify, prevent, and address modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically, transparently, and with integrity in all our relationships, and to implementing effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery does not take place in any part of our business.
Modern slavery includes forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, debt bondage, child labour, and any form of exploitation where individuals are coerced, threatened, or deceived. Storage East Sheen recognises that these abuses can occur in any jurisdiction and industry, and we are committed to continuous improvement in identifying and mitigating such risks.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
Storage East Sheen operates a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not tolerate any form of exploitation within our own operations or within the activities of our suppliers, contractors, or business partners. All employees, agency staff, and suppliers are expected to align with this position as a condition of working with us.
Our internal policies set out clear expectations for ethical conduct, fair treatment, and compliance with all applicable labour and human rights laws. Any breach or suspected breach of these standards is treated seriously and may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or commercial relationships.
Risk Assessment and Due Diligence
We periodically assess the risk of modern slavery in our operations and supply chain, with particular attention to higher risk activities such as contracted services, construction, maintenance, cleaning, and the sourcing of equipment and materials. Where we identify elevated risks, we enhance our due diligence and oversight.
Due diligence measures may include requesting information on labour practices, verifying the use of legal employment contracts, checking the use of responsible recruitment practices, and seeking assurances that workers have freedom of movement and are not subject to fees, deposits, or retention of identity documents.
Supplier Standards and Audits
Storage East Sheen expects all suppliers and contractors to operate in accordance with our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery. We seek to engage only with organisations that uphold lawful, transparent, and humane employment practices. Supplier contracts and onboarding documents set out our expectations and require compliance with relevant legislation and our ethical standards.
We reserve the right to conduct audits or request evidence from suppliers to demonstrate compliance with labour and human rights standards. This may include reviewing policies, training records, worker contracts, wage documentation, and health and safety procedures. Where necessary, we may conduct site visits or request independent verification. If a supplier fails to meet our standards or is unwilling to improve, we will consider suspending or terminating the relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Storage East Sheen encourages all employees, agency workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to raise any concerns about modern slavery or unethical practices without fear of retaliation. Concerns can be reported to line managers, senior management, or through internal reporting mechanisms set out in our workplace policies.
We are committed to handling all concerns sensitively, confidentially where possible, and in a manner that protects those who report in good faith. All reports are reviewed promptly and, where appropriate, investigated. Where credible issues are identified, we will take action to address them, which may include collaboration with relevant authorities and support for affected individuals, where it is within our capability to do so.
Training and Awareness
To support the effective implementation of this statement, Storage East Sheen aims to raise awareness of modern slavery risks among key employees, particularly those involved in procurement, facilities management, and supplier engagement. Training and guidance help staff understand how to recognise indicators of modern slavery and how to respond appropriately.
We also communicate our expectations to suppliers and partners so they understand our requirements and the importance we place on ethical practices and human rights protections.
Monitoring, Accountability and Annual Review
Storage East Sheen understands that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process. We monitor the effectiveness of our policies, risk assessments, and due diligence activities and seek opportunities for improvement. Where lessons are learned from audits, investigations, or industry developments, we incorporate them into our practices.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and reflective of our current operations and risk profile. Any significant changes to our approach, or to legal and regulatory requirements, will be incorporated into the updated statement. The reviewed statement will be approved at an appropriate senior level within Storage East Sheen to ensure continued oversight and accountability.
By maintaining a clear zero-tolerance stance, implementing supplier audits and due diligence, providing accessible reporting channels, and committing to ongoing review, Storage East Sheen aims to contribute to the prevention of modern slavery and the protection of human rights across our operations and supply chain.
