Storage Shirley Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Storage Shirley takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to act ethically, transparently, and with integrity in all our business relationships, and to implement effective systems and controls to safeguard against any form of modern slavery.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
Storage Shirley has a zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced or compulsory labour, and child labour. This applies to all aspects of our business, including direct employment, contracted services, and procurement of goods and materials. We are committed to working only with organisations that share our values and can demonstrate robust practices to prevent exploitation.
All colleagues, contractors, and suppliers are expected to act in accordance with this policy. Any conduct that is inconsistent with our zero-tolerance approach is treated as a serious matter and may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts, or referral to relevant authorities where appropriate.
Our Supply Chain and Supplier Standards
Our supply chain includes providers of storage equipment, maintenance and facilities services, utilities, technology systems, and professional support services. We seek to build long-term relationships with suppliers who can evidence lawful and ethical working practices.
Supplier standards form a core part of our procurement decisions. We expect suppliers to uphold human rights, to prohibit forced and child labour, to ensure fair working conditions, and to comply with all applicable labour and employment laws. Where appropriate, we incorporate contractual clauses requiring suppliers to prevent modern slavery and to notify us of any suspected or actual breaches.
Supplier Audits and Risk Assessment
Storage Shirley uses a risk-based approach to assess exposure to modern slavery within our supply chain. We consider factors such as geographic location, sector, type of service or product, and the structure of the workforce involved. Higher-risk suppliers may be subject to enhanced due diligence and more frequent review.
We conduct supplier audits to verify compliance with our standards and relevant legislation. These audits may include review of employment practices, working conditions, right to work checks, and subcontracting arrangements. Where we identify concerns, we work collaboratively with the supplier to agree corrective actions and monitor progress. In cases of serious or persistent non-compliance, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing
Storage Shirley encourages all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns related to modern slavery or exploitation. This includes suspected incidents within our own operations or anywhere in our supply chain.
Reports can be made to line managers, senior management, or via established internal reporting channels. We treat all concerns seriously, investigate them promptly and fairly, and take appropriate remedial action where necessary. Individuals raising genuine concerns in good faith are protected from retaliation, and we support a culture in which people feel safe to speak up.
Training and Awareness
We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our employees, particularly those involved in procurement, facilities management, and supplier engagement. Training and guidance are provided to help staff recognise warning signs of exploitation, understand our zero-tolerance policy, and know how to escalate concerns.
We also expect senior leaders and managers to promote ethical practices and to ensure that their teams understand and apply the principles set out in this statement.
Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with senior management at Storage Shirley. They are accountable for ensuring that appropriate policies, procedures, and controls are in place and that these are implemented consistently across the business.
We monitor the effectiveness of our measures through regular review of supplier audits, reported concerns, corrective actions, and changes in risk profile within our operations and supply chains. Lessons learned from incidents or audits are used to strengthen our processes and to inform future training and guidance.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. The review considers developments in legislation, shifts in our supply chain, stakeholder feedback, and emerging risks. Updated versions of the statement are approved by senior management and communicated within the business and to relevant external partners.
Storage Shirley remains committed to continuous improvement in identifying, preventing, and addressing modern slavery wherever it may occur in connection with our activities.
