Storage Blackfriars Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is published by Storage Blackfriars in accordance with applicable modern slavery and human trafficking legislation. It sets out the steps we are taking to identify, prevent, and address the risk of modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Storage Blackfriars provides secure storage facilities and related services to a wide range of customers. Our activities include the management of storage units, associated site maintenance, and the procurement of goods and services such as building works, cleaning, security, technology, and equipment. We recognise that the risk of modern slavery can exist at various stages of our supply chain, particularly in sectors such as construction, facilities management, and the production of goods and materials.
Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery
Storage Blackfriars maintains a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and to implementing effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery is not taking place in our own operations or in any of our supply chains.
We expect the same high standards from all those we work with, including suppliers, contractors, and business partners. We require that they conduct their business in a manner that respects human rights, supports fair working practices, and complies with all applicable labour and employment laws.
Due Diligence and Supplier Audits
We are progressively enhancing our due diligence processes to assess and manage the risk of modern slavery within our supply chains. This includes identifying higher risk categories of suppliers based on factors such as sector, geography, and the nature of the services or goods provided.
Storage Blackfriars undertakes supplier assessments and, where appropriate, audits of selected suppliers. These assessments may include reviews of labour practices, working conditions, recruitment methods, and the use of subcontractors. We seek assurances that suppliers have their own policies and controls in place to prevent modern slavery and that they communicate these expectations throughout their own supply chains.
Where risks or non-compliance are identified, we will work with suppliers to agree corrective action plans and follow-up measures. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to address concerns to our satisfaction, we reserve the right to review, suspend, or terminate the relationship.
Reporting Channels and Raising Concerns
Storage Blackfriars encourages a culture of openness where concerns about modern slavery or unethical conduct can be raised without fear of retaliation. Employees, contractors, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery in our operations or supply chain.
Concerns may be raised through established internal reporting routes or directly to management. All reports will be treated seriously and handled sensitively. We will investigate concerns promptly and, where necessary, take appropriate action, which may include working with suppliers to resolve issues, reporting matters to the relevant authorities, or ending business relationships.
Training and Awareness
We recognise that raising awareness among our team is essential to preventing modern slavery. Storage Blackfriars is working to provide relevant staff with training and guidance on identifying indicators of modern slavery and understanding the appropriate steps to take if concerns arise. This includes employees involved in procurement, supplier management, and site operations.
Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement
We are committed to continually improving our approach to combating modern slavery. Storage Blackfriars will review this Modern Slavery Statement and the effectiveness of our controls and procedures on an annual basis. The review will consider changes in our operations, updates to legislation and guidance, feedback from stakeholders, and the findings of any audits, investigations, or risk assessments conducted during the year.
Following each annual review, we will update our policies, processes, and training as required to strengthen our response and ensure that our zero-tolerance stance remains robust and effective. This statement has been approved by the leadership of Storage Blackfriars and will be reviewed and updated every year to reflect our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and protecting human rights across our business and supply chains.
