Storage Beddington Modern Slavery Statement 2024
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Storage Beddington has taken, and is continuing to take, to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not taking place within our business operations or supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically, with integrity and transparency in all business dealings, and to putting effective systems and controls in place to safeguard against any form of modern slavery.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Storage Beddington operates a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and exploitation in any form. This commitment applies to all aspects of our business, including direct employment, agency workers, contractors and our broader supply chain. We expect all individuals and organisations who work with us or on our behalf to share and uphold this stance.
Our senior management team is responsible for ensuring that this policy is embedded across the company, communicated clearly, and reinforced through our procedures, training and supplier engagements. Any breach of this commitment by our staff or suppliers is treated as a serious matter that may result in disciplinary action or termination of contract.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Storage Beddington provides storage and related services to a broad range of customers. Our supply chains include providers of storage equipment and materials, facility maintenance and security services, technology and support services, and a range of professional and operational partners. While the risk of modern slavery may vary across different sectors and geographies, we recognise that no sector is immune and we maintain vigilance throughout our operations.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We are committed to working only with suppliers who share our ethical principles. Our procurement processes incorporate modern slavery considerations as part of supplier selection, onboarding and ongoing evaluation. We expect suppliers to operate in full compliance with all applicable labour, employment and human rights laws and to prohibit forced, bonded, compulsory or trafficked labour.
Where appropriate, we conduct supplier audits or request evidence of their own modern slavery policies, due diligence processes and workforce practices. These audits may include document reviews, questionnaires and, where feasible, site visits. If we identify potential risks or non-compliance, we engage with the supplier to develop corrective actions within a clear timeframe. Continued non-compliance or unwillingness to improve may result in the suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Storage Beddington encourages a culture of openness in which concerns about modern slavery or unethical conduct can be raised without fear of retaliation. All employees, contractors, suppliers and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery, human trafficking or related abuses connected to our business or supply chains.
Reports can be made through our internal reporting processes or directly to senior management. Concerns will be treated seriously, handled confidentially as far as reasonably possible, and investigated promptly and impartially. We will take appropriate action in response to any substantiated concern, which may include working with authorities or specialist organisations where necessary.
Training and Awareness
We provide relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, facilities management and human resources, with guidance on identifying and addressing risks of modern slavery. This includes awareness of common indicators of exploitation, how to respond to concerns, and the importance of conducting ethical due diligence. We are committed to enhancing awareness across the business so that modern slavery risks are understood and proactively managed.
Monitoring, Governance and Annual Review
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with senior management, who review key risks, incidents and supplier issues on a regular basis. We continually evaluate the effectiveness of our measures, taking into account changes in our business, our supply chains and the wider regulatory environment.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed each year to ensure it remains accurate, effective and aligned with best practice. As part of the annual review, we assess our risk profile, the outcomes of supplier audits, any reported concerns and the need for additional training or controls. Where improvements are identified, we implement them as part of our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and protecting human rights throughout Storage Beddington and our supply chains.
