Modern Slavery Statement for Barnes Storage
Barnes Storage is committed to conducting business with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent slavery, servitude, forced labour, and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery can take many forms, and we maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward any practice that exploits vulnerable people. Our approach is based on prevention, detection, and prompt action.
As a storage business, we work with a range of suppliers, contractors, and service partners. We understand that risks may exist in areas such as transport, facilities management, equipment supply, packaging, cleaning, and security services. Barnes Storage applies robust due diligence when selecting and reviewing partners, with particular attention to labour practices, subcontracting arrangements, and ethical conduct. We expect all suppliers to comply with applicable employment, human rights, and anti-trafficking laws.
Our procurement process includes clear expectations for ethical sourcing. Suppliers are required to confirm that they do not use forced, bonded, or child labour, and that workers are treated fairly and paid lawfully. Where risks are identified, we may request additional documentation, require corrective action plans, or pause business relationships until concerns are resolved. This modern slavery policy applies throughout our operations and supports responsible decision-making at every level.
Risk Management and Supplier Audits
Barnes Storage carries out regular supplier audits and reviews to help identify and address potential signs of exploitation. These checks may include assessments of labour records, site conditions, subcontractor controls, and compliance with agreed standards. Audits are proportionate to risk and may be scheduled or unannounced where appropriate. If a supplier fails to meet our requirements, we will seek immediate remediation and may end the relationship if improvement is not demonstrated.
We also provide staff involved in procurement and supplier management with guidance on recognising warning signs such as withheld wages, excessive working hours, restricted movement, or unclear employment terms. Awareness of these indicators supports our commitment to preventing modern slavery in the Barnes Storage supply chain. Ethical practice is not only a compliance issue; it is a core expectation of how we do business.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We encourage employees, contractors, and suppliers to report any concern about modern slavery or unethical labour practices immediately. Reports can be made through internal management routes, designated safeguarding procedures, or our confidential whistleblowing channel. All concerns are treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled with discretion. Barnes Storage does not tolerate retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. This commitment helps create a safe environment for speaking up.
Where credible concerns are raised, we will work with relevant parties to assess the issue, protect potential victims, and take corrective action. This may include enhancing checks, engaging specialist support, or reporting matters to the appropriate authorities. Protecting human rights remains central to our modern slavery compliance framework, and we expect the same standard from those who work with us.
Annual review is an essential part of our statement and control process. Barnes Storage reviews this statement at least once every year to assess effectiveness, reflect changes in legal requirements, and incorporate lessons learned from audits, incidents, and supplier evaluations. The review process ensures our approach remains current, practical, and aligned with our values.
In addition to formal review, we monitor relevant business risks throughout the year and update our controls where necessary. Training, supplier due diligence, and reporting mechanisms are all subject to continuous improvement. We recognise that eliminating modern slavery requires vigilance, accountability, and ongoing cooperation across the business and supply chain.
Barnes Storage reaffirms its commitment to uphold this modern slavery statement and to operate in a way that respects dignity, fairness, and lawful employment. Through our zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, reporting channels, and annual review, we aim to ensure that modern slavery has no place in our organisation or supply chain.