Storage South Kensington Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Storage South Kensington in respect of the financial year ending 31 December. It outlines our commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to act ethically and with integrity in all business relationships and to implement and enforce effective systems and controls that ensure modern slavery does not occur.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Storage South Kensington operates storage facilities and associated services for a broad customer base. Our supply chains include providers of property management services, cleaning and maintenance contractors, security services, technology and software providers, office and packaging supplies, utilities, and professional services. We understand that risk can exist at any level of a supply chain and are committed to identifying, assessing and mitigating these risks on an ongoing basis.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
Storage South Kensington has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced or compulsory labour, and child labour. We expect the same high standards from all our suppliers, contractors and business partners, and we will not knowingly work with any organisation involved in or knowingly tolerating such practices. Our zero-tolerance approach is embedded in our policies, supplier expectations and staff training, and guides our decision-making across the business.
Policies and Governance
Our approach to modern slavery is supported by internal policies that promote ethical conduct, respect for human rights and safe working conditions. These include codes of conduct, procurement standards and health and safety procedures. Management is responsible for overseeing compliance with these policies and ensuring that employees understand their obligations. Where necessary, we update our policies to reflect evolving legal requirements and industry good practice relating to modern slavery.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We aim to work only with suppliers and contractors who share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. As part of our supplier onboarding and ongoing management processes, we conduct proportionate due diligence to assess potential risks. This may include requesting information about labour practices, reviewing relevant policies and seeking confirmations of compliance with anti-slavery legislation.
Where we identify elevated risks, we may undertake more detailed checks, request corrective action plans or conduct audits. These audits may be desk-based or on-site, depending on the nature of the relationship and level of risk. If a supplier fails to meet our expectations or refuses to engage constructively on identified issues, we reserve the right to amend, suspend or terminate the relationship.
Training and Awareness
We provide training and guidance so that employees, particularly those involved in procurement, facilities management and supplier oversight, can recognise indicators of modern slavery and know how to respond. Awareness of modern slavery risks is integrated into relevant induction processes and refreshed periodically. We encourage staff to remain vigilant and to challenge any practice that appears inconsistent with our values and policies.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Storage South Kensington encourages employees, suppliers and other stakeholders to raise concerns about potential modern slavery or human rights abuses without fear of retaliation. Concerns can be reported through internal line management channels or via established whistleblowing routes within the business. Reports may be made confidentially, and all concerns will be treated seriously and handled sensitively.
Any allegation relating to modern slavery will be investigated promptly and, where appropriate, may be escalated to senior management. We will take suitable remedial and disciplinary action where non-compliance is identified and will cooperate with law enforcement or regulatory bodies when required.
Monitoring, Performance and Annual Review
We are committed to continuous improvement in our efforts to prevent modern slavery. We monitor our actions and consider indicators such as supplier responses to due diligence, audit findings, training completion and any reported incidents. These insights inform updates to our risk assessments, policies and processes.
This statement is reviewed at least annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective and aligned with legal obligations and recognised good practice. As part of the annual review, we assess progress made, identify areas for enhancement and set priorities for the coming year. The statement is approved by the leadership of Storage South Kensington and represents our ongoing commitment to upholding human rights and eliminating modern slavery in all its forms.
