Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Storage New Cross in respect of the financial year ending 31 December and sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains.
Storage New Cross recognises that modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights. It can occur in various forms, including slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, bonded labour, and human trafficking. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships, and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery is not taking place anywhere in our own business or in our supply chains.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
Storage New Cross operates a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not tolerate any form of exploitation, whether direct or indirect, within our operations or among our suppliers, contractors, and business partners.
All individuals working for or on behalf of Storage New Cross, irrespective of their location, seniority, or employment status, are required to comply with this policy. Any potential breach will be treated as a serious matter and may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of contracts or engagement, as well as reporting to the relevant authorities where appropriate.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Storage New Cross provides storage facilities and related services. Our supply chains include providers of property maintenance, security, cleaning, construction and refurbishment services, utilities, equipment, and various professional and support services.
We recognise that some sectors and regions may carry higher risks of modern slavery. As a result, we seek to identify and assess areas of potential vulnerability and apply enhanced due diligence and monitoring where those risks are greater.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We expect all our suppliers and contractors to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. Before entering into or renewing significant contracts, we conduct proportionate due diligence on suppliers to assess labour practices, working conditions, and ethical standards.
Our approach to supplier due diligence includes risk-based assessments of geographic location, industry, and the nature of goods or services provided. Where risk is identified as medium or high, we may require additional information on employment practices or supporting documents to evidence compliance with applicable labour and human rights laws.
Storage New Cross reserves the right to carry out audits or inspections of suppliers where appropriate. These audits may be conducted by our internal team or competent third parties and may include document reviews, site visits, and discussions with relevant personnel. If a supplier is found to be in breach of our standards on modern slavery, we will seek corrective action within a defined timeframe. If corrective action is not implemented or is insufficient, we may suspend or terminate the relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We encourage a culture of transparency and accountability, 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, concern, or information regarding potential modern slavery in our operations or supply chains.
Concerns can be raised through internal reporting lines, including line managers or senior management, or via any established whistleblowing channels operated by Storage New Cross. All reports will be taken seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly where appropriate. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith.
Training and Awareness
Storage New Cross is committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff and to promoting responsible behaviour throughout our organisation. Relevant employees receive information and guidance on recognising indicators of modern slavery, understanding our policies, and knowing how to escalate concerns.
We keep our training materials and guidance under review to ensure they reflect current legislation, best practice, and our evolving understanding of risks within our sector and supply chains.
Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery sits with Storage New Cross senior management. They are tasked with monitoring the effectiveness of our policies, due diligence processes, and any remedial actions taken.
We are committed to continual improvement. Our modern slavery controls, risk assessments, and supplier management processes are reviewed regularly to identify opportunities to strengthen our approach. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed and updated annually to reflect the steps we have taken and plan to take to prevent modern slavery in our business and supply chains.
This statement has been approved by the management of Storage New Cross and will be made available to employees, suppliers, and stakeholders.
