Storage South Croydon Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Storage South Croydon in respect of the financial year ending 31 December and sets out the steps we take to identify, prevent, and address the risks of modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Storage South Croydon is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard the rights and welfare of individuals.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Storage South Croydon has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This includes slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, child labour, debt bondage, and any practice that deprives a person of their liberty or exploits their vulnerability for personal or commercial gain. We will not knowingly conduct business with any organisation or individual involved in such practices.
All employees, contractors, suppliers, and other business partners are expected to share our commitment. Where credible concerns arise, Storage South Croydon reserves the right to suspend or terminate relationships and take appropriate steps to support affected individuals and escalate matters to relevant authorities where required.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Storage South Croydon operates storage and related services in South Croydon and neighbouring areas. Our supply chains include providers of facilities management, security, cleaning, maintenance, utilities, equipment, technology, and professional services. While our sector is not typically considered high risk, we recognise that modern slavery can occur in any industry or geography, particularly in lower tiers of supply and in labour-intensive services.
Risk Assessment and Due Diligence
We undertake risk-based assessments of our operations and supply chains to identify areas where the risk of modern slavery may be higher. This assessment considers the nature of services provided, geographical location, use of subcontracted labour, and the known risk profile of particular sectors such as cleaning, construction, and security.
For higher-risk categories, we apply enhanced due diligence which may include additional questioning about labour practices, verification of right-to-work procedures, and review of subcontracting arrangements. We seek to engage with suppliers that demonstrate strong ethical standards and transparent labour practices.
Supplier Standards and Audits
Storage South Croydon expects all suppliers and contractors to adhere to our zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery. Our standard procurement documentation and supplier terms require compliance with all applicable modern slavery and human rights legislation, as well as adherence to fair and safe working conditions.
We conduct proportionate supplier audits and reviews, focusing on higher-risk suppliers and service categories. These audits may include site visits where appropriate, examination of workforce records, and discussions with management about recruitment, working hours, wages, and grievance mechanisms. If a supplier is found to be in breach of our standards, we will require corrective action within a reasonable timescale and will consider suspension or termination where issues are not adequately addressed.
Training and Awareness
We provide training and guidance to relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, site management, and facilities operations. Training covers the indicators of modern slavery, appropriate questions to ask suppliers, and the procedure for escalating concerns. We encourage all staff to remain alert to potential issues and to act immediately if they suspect that any person may be at risk.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing
Storage South Croydon encourages employees, suppliers, contractors, and any other stakeholders to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery or human trafficking in our operations or supply chains. Concerns can be raised with a line manager, senior management, or through established internal reporting channels. Reports can be made confidentially, and retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith will not be tolerated.
All reports are taken seriously and will be investigated promptly and sensitively. Where appropriate, we will involve external expert advice or contact law enforcement or regulatory bodies. We are committed to protecting the welfare and safety of any person who may be affected by the concerns raised.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that tackling modern slavery requires ongoing vigilance and continuous improvement. Storage South Croydon will review this Modern Slavery Statement and our associated policies and procedures at least annually, or more frequently if there are significant changes in legislation, best practice, or our operations.
As part of this review, we will evaluate the effectiveness of our risk assessments, supplier audits, training programmes, and reporting mechanisms. We will update our approach where necessary to strengthen protections, improve transparency, and enhance our ability to identify and prevent modern slavery in all aspects of our business.
This statement has been approved by the leadership of Storage South Croydon and represents our ongoing commitment to ethical conduct, respect for human rights, and the eradication of modern slavery and human trafficking.
