Storage Crayford Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Storage Crayford in respect of the financial year ending 31 December and sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Storage Crayford recognises that modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implementing and enforcing systems and controls that seek to ensure modern slavery does not take place anywhere in or connected to our business.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
Storage Crayford has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. This stance applies to every aspect of our operations, including the engagement of staff, contractors, agency workers, and the procurement of goods and services. We expect the same high standards from all of our suppliers and business partners and we will not knowingly work with any party that is involved in, or associated with, modern slavery or human trafficking.
We require our employees and representatives to conduct business in a manner that is consistent with our values and policies. Any breach or suspected breach of our zero-tolerance position will be taken extremely seriously and may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts, or referral to law enforcement or regulatory bodies where appropriate.
Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits
Our supply chain includes providers of property services, maintenance, security, cleaning, equipment, and other operational and professional services. Storage Crayford seeks to work only with suppliers who share our commitment to ethical conduct and the protection of human rights.
We communicate our expectations to suppliers through our contractual requirements and supplier standards, which prohibit the use of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour and require compliance with all applicable labour, health and safety, and human rights laws. As part of our ongoing due diligence, we assess supplier risk based on sector, geography, and the nature of the products or services supplied.
Where we identify suppliers operating in higher risk categories, we may conduct more detailed checks or audits. These audits may include the review of employment practices, evidence of right to work checks, wage and working hour records, and health and safety procedures. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to meet our standards or to remedy issues identified during an audit, Storage Crayford reserves the right to suspend or end the business relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Storage Crayford encourages a culture of openness where concerns about modern slavery or unethical behaviour can be raised without fear of retaliation. All employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspicion of slavery, human trafficking, or exploitation connected to our business or supply chain.
Concerns can be raised with line managers, senior management, or through existing internal reporting channels. We are committed to investigating any report promptly, fairly, and sensitively. Reports will be treated confidentially to the extent possible, and individuals who raise genuine concerns in good faith will be protected from detrimental treatment, even if their concerns are not substantiated following investigation.
Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement
To support our zero-tolerance approach, Storage Crayford provides relevant staff with information and guidance on recognising the signs of modern slavery and how to respond to concerns. This may include induction briefings, management updates, and targeted training for employees who are involved in procurement, supplier management, or facilities operations.
We are committed to improving our practices to combat modern slavery. This includes reviewing and enhancing our policies, strengthening our supplier assessments, and monitoring emerging best practice and guidance. We also encourage feedback from employees and suppliers to help us identify areas where we can do more to prevent and address risks.
Annual Review and Governance
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually to ensure it remains appropriate, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and industry standards. As part of this review, Storage Crayford considers developments in our business, changes in our supply chain, lessons learned from any incidents or reports, and feedback from stakeholders.
The annual review may result in updated policies, revised supplier requirements, additional training, or changes to our due diligence and audit processes. The updated statement is approved by the relevant senior management and made available as part of our commitment to transparency. By continuously reviewing and improving our approach, Storage Crayford seeks to reduce the risk of modern slavery in our operations and supply chains and to contribute to wider efforts to eradicate these abuses.
