Mertonpark Storage Modern Slavery Statement

Mertonpark 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 within our operations and supply chain. We recognise that modern slavery can affect many sectors, including storage, logistics, cleaning, security, maintenance, and subcontracted services, and we remain vigilant in identifying and addressing any associated risks.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

We maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of modern slavery and exploitation. This applies to our workforce, contractors, agency staff, suppliers, and business partners. Mertonpark Storage expects every person acting on our behalf to uphold the same standards. Any indication of coercion, debt bondage, withheld documentation, unsafe working conditions, or child labour is treated as a serious concern and may lead to immediate review and termination of the relationship.

Our approach to the modern slavery statement is based on prevention, detection, and remediation. We seek to minimise risk through responsible recruitment practices, clear employment terms, and appropriate oversight of third parties. We also encourage managers to remain alert to warning signs, such as unusual restrictions on movement, workers appearing fearful, or evidence that individuals are not free to choose or leave employment.

Supply Chain Due Diligence

A key part of our commitment is rigorous supplier due diligence. Mertonpark Storage assesses suppliers before engagement and considers the nature of the service, location, labour intensity, and subcontracting arrangements. Higher-risk suppliers may be subject to enhanced checks, including review of policies, labour practices, and compliance controls. We expect suppliers to confirm that they have suitable procedures in place to prevent modern slavery and to flow these expectations through their own supply chains.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

Where appropriate, we carry out supplier audits and follow-up reviews to verify compliance with our standards. These audits may include document checks, site visits, worker interviews, and assessment of recruitment and pay practices. Findings are recorded and used to improve oversight. If a supplier cannot demonstrate acceptable standards, we will work with them to correct issues where possible; however, serious breaches may result in suspension or removal from our approved supplier base.

Reporting Channels and Safeguarding

We provide clear reporting channels so that concerns can be raised promptly and in good faith. Employees and contractors are encouraged to report suspected exploitation, unsafe conditions, or unethical conduct through internal management routes and safeguarding procedures. Reports are handled sensitively, and retaliation against any person who raises a concern is not tolerated. We believe that early reporting is essential to protecting vulnerable people and responding effectively to risk.

Training is an important element of our anti-slavery programme. Relevant staff receive guidance on recognising indicators of modern slavery, understanding escalation procedures, and applying due diligence expectations in supplier relationships. This helps ensure that the Mertonpark Storage modern slavery framework is not only documented but also actively embedded in day-to-day decision-making. We review our policies, procurement practices, and risk controls to keep them practical and effective.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to annual review of this statement and the measures supporting it. Each year, we assess the effectiveness of our actions, consider any incidents or concerns raised, and identify opportunities for improvement. The review process informs updates to our training, supplier monitoring, and governance arrangements. Our aim is continuous improvement in the prevention of modern slavery across the business and its wider network.

This statement reflects the values of Mertonpark Storage and our determination to act responsibly. By maintaining a zero-tolerance stance, conducting supplier audits, enabling reporting channels, and completing an annual review, we aim to reduce the risk of exploitation and uphold ethical standards throughout our organisation and supply chain. We remain committed to strengthening the modern slavery controls that support our people, partners, and communities.