Storage Barnes Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Storage Barnes in respect of the financial year ending 31 December. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains.
Modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights. It encompasses slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour, debt bondage, and human trafficking. Storage Barnes recognises its responsibility to identify, prevent, and address any risks of modern slavery that may be connected to our activities.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
Storage Barnes maintains a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, contractor, or organisation involved in such practices, directly or indirectly.
This policy applies to all directors, employees, agency workers, contractors, and any third parties acting on behalf of Storage Barnes. Compliance with this policy is a condition of working with or for our business. Where breaches are identified, we will take immediate and decisive action, which may include termination of contracts and reporting concerns to relevant authorities.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Storage Barnes operates storage facilities and related services. Our supply chains include property management services, maintenance and cleaning providers, security services, equipment and materials suppliers, and professional advisers.
We recognise that some parts of our supply chains may present higher risks of modern slavery due to factors such as location, industry practices, or use of temporary and subcontracted labour. We are committed to understanding and managing these risks through proactive engagement and oversight.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers and service providers to uphold high ethical standards and to comply with all applicable laws relating to labour, human rights, and modern slavery. Our supplier requirements include a commitment to lawful employment practices, fair wages, safe working conditions, and the prohibition of forced or child labour.
Storage Barnes is developing and implementing supplier due diligence processes that include risk-based assessments and, where appropriate, on-site or remote audits. These audits may review working conditions, recruitment practices, use of subcontractors, and documentation related to workers' terms of employment.
If a supplier is found to be in breach of our modern slavery standards, we will seek corrective actions within a defined timeframe. Failure to remedy issues will result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Storage Barnes encourages the reporting of any concerns related to modern slavery, whether within our own operations or in our supply chains. Workers, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders are urged to raise concerns through established internal reporting routes or directly to management.
We are committed to ensuring that anyone who raises a concern in good faith will not suffer retaliation or detrimental treatment as a result. Reports will be treated sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. All allegations will be investigated promptly and appropriate steps will be taken in response to any substantiated concerns.
Training and Awareness
We are working to increase awareness of modern slavery risks among our employees, particularly those involved in procurement, supplier management, and facility operations. Training and guidance will cover recognising indicators of modern slavery, understanding reporting channels, and following our zero-tolerance policy in day-to-day decision-making.
Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior management team of Storage Barnes. They review identified risks, the effectiveness of controls, and the outcomes of any investigations or supplier audits.
This statement and our supporting procedures are reviewed at least annually to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, and the nature of our operations and supply chains. Where necessary, we will update our processes, contracts, and training to strengthen our protections against modern slavery.
This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the management of Storage Barnes and will be updated and reissued each year to confirm our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in every part of our business.
