Modern Slavery Statement for Storage Bedford Park
This Modern Slavery Statement outlines the approach taken by Storage Bedford Park to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business dealings and relationships, and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery is not taking place anywhere in or connected to our business.
Our Organisation and Supply Chains
Storage Bedford Park operates storage and related services to a broad customer base. Our supply chains include contractors, facility management providers, equipment suppliers, technology vendors, and a range of professional and support services. We recognise that certain sectors and geographies can present higher risks of labour exploitation, and we therefore take a risk-based approach to assessing and managing modern slavery risks.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
We maintain a strict zero-tolerance stance towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, child labour, servitude, bonded labour, and human trafficking. This commitment extends to all individuals working directly for Storage Bedford Park and to those working within our supply chains. We expect everyone associated with our business to share this commitment and to act in a manner consistent with our standards.
Our internal policies, including those relating to recruitment, equal opportunities, health and safety, and whistleblowing, are designed to minimise the risk of exploitation and to promote fair and respectful treatment for all workers. We do not charge recruitment fees, and we do not tolerate practices that restrict a worker’s freedom of movement or right to leave employment.
Supplier Standards and Audits
Storage Bedford Park expects all suppliers, contractors, and business partners to uphold the same high standards that we set for ourselves. We seek to work with organisations that can demonstrate fair employment practices, legal compliance, and respect for human rights.
As part of our due diligence processes, we conduct assessments of key suppliers proportionate to the level of risk identified. This may include requesting evidence of labour standards policies, reviewing contractual terms, and asking targeted questions about recruitment processes, worker protections, and grievance mechanisms. Where appropriate, we carry out audits, either directly or through independent third parties, to verify compliance with our expectations on modern slavery.
Where non-compliance or heightened risk is identified, we will seek corrective actions within clear and reasonable timeframes. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to address our concerns, we reserve the right to review, suspend, or terminate the relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Protection from Retaliation
We encourage all employees, contractors, and stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions regarding modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business or supply chain. Concerns may relate to working conditions, recruitment fees, retention of identity documents, threats or coercion, or any other indicators of exploitation.
Reports can be made through internal management channels or via our whistleblowing arrangements. Individuals raising concerns in good faith will be protected from retaliation, and their reports will be handled sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. All reports will be investigated promptly, and appropriate action will be taken where issues are substantiated.
Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement
We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and human resources. Training and guidance are provided so that relevant employees can recognise indicators of exploitation and understand the steps to take if they have concerns.
We aim to improve our approach over time by learning from industry best practice, engaging with suppliers, and refining our risk assessment and due diligence processes. Our objective is to build long-term relationships with partners who share our commitment to ethical conduct and respect for human rights.
Monitoring and Annual Review
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the leadership of Storage Bedford Park to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with legal requirements and evolving best practice. As part of this review, we evaluate our risk assessments, supplier audits, reported concerns, and any remedial actions taken during the year.
Following each review, we may update our policies, procedures, and training to strengthen our controls and further reduce the risk of modern slavery in our operations and supply chains. This statement represents our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and protecting the dignity and rights of all workers connected with Storage Bedford Park.
