Modern Slavery Statement for Storage Waterloo
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Storage Waterloo has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. Storage Waterloo is committed to operating ethically, transparently, and with integrity in all business dealings, and to putting effective systems and controls in place to safeguard against any form of modern slavery.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
Storage Waterloo has a clear zero-tolerance policy toward modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, and all forms of exploitation. This policy applies to all employees, contractors, suppliers, and business partners associated with our operations. We expect everyone working with us or on our behalf to share our commitment to respecting human rights and upholding fair working conditions.
We do not accept any practice that involves coercion, deception, or abuse of vulnerability. We will not knowingly conduct business with any organisation or individual that engages in or condones such practices. Where instances of non-compliance are identified, we will take decisive action, which may include terminating relationships and reporting concerns to the appropriate authorities.
Governance and Responsibilities
The leadership team at Storage Waterloo is responsible for overseeing the implementation of this statement and ensuring that suitable procedures are maintained and updated. Managers are expected to promote awareness of modern slavery risks among their teams and to ensure that employees understand their responsibilities. All staff are required to act in accordance with our zero-tolerance policy and to raise any concerns they may have in good faith.
Supplier Standards and Due Diligence
Our approach to preventing modern slavery extends throughout our supply chains. Storage Waterloo expects all suppliers and service providers to operate in line with our ethical standards and to comply with all applicable labour and human rights laws. We communicate our expectations clearly during supplier onboarding and through ongoing engagement.
As part of our due diligence process, we assess the risk of modern slavery based on factors such as geography, sector, and the nature of goods or services provided. Where higher risks are identified, we seek additional assurances from suppliers regarding their employment practices, recruitment methods, and monitoring systems.
Supplier Audits and Monitoring
Storage Waterloo conducts proportionate supplier audits and reviews to verify compliance with our standards. These audits may include site visits, requests for documentary evidence, and structured discussions with management. We focus on working conditions, recruitment practices, wage and hour compliance, and the freedom of workers to leave their employment.
Where necessary, we may require suppliers to put corrective action plans in place within a defined timeframe. Continued non-compliance, or failure to show meaningful progress, can result in the suspension or termination of our commercial relationship. Our aim is to foster long-term, responsible partnerships that prioritise the protection of workers.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Storage Waterloo encourages anyone who has concerns about potential modern slavery or unethical labour practices within our operations or supply chains to raise these issues without fear of retaliation. Employees can report concerns to their line manager or other senior management representatives. Suppliers and third parties are also encouraged to report suspected abuses through the same internal channels or by approaching a senior representative of Storage Waterloo.
All reports are treated seriously and, where appropriate, investigated promptly and thoroughly. We strive to maintain confidentiality to the extent possible and will not tolerate any form of victimisation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith.
Training and Awareness
To support our zero-tolerance stance, Storage Waterloo provides training and guidance to relevant staff on recognising the indicators of modern slavery and understanding the appropriate steps to take if concerns arise. This helps to ensure that employees, particularly those involved in procurement and supplier management, are equipped to identify and address potential risks.
Annual Review and Continuous Improvement
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective and aligned with evolving legislation, best practice, and the changing risk landscape. During each review, we evaluate the effectiveness of our policies, supplier assessments, audits, and reporting mechanisms.
We are committed to continuous improvement and will update our processes where opportunities are identified to strengthen protections for workers. Any significant changes or new initiatives will be reflected in future versions of this statement, along with a summary of our progress in addressing modern slavery risks.
This statement has been approved by the leadership of Storage Waterloo and represents our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our business.
