Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps taken by Storage Merton Park to prevent modern slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It is made in respect of the financial year to which it relates and reflects our ongoing commitment to ethical business conduct.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Storage Merton Park operates storage facilities and related services. Our supply chain includes providers of property maintenance, security, cleaning, utilities, equipment, information technology, professional services and other operational support. We recognise that every business has a responsibility to understand and address modern slavery risks within its sphere of influence, regardless of size or sector.
Zero-Tolerance Approach
We maintain a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking in all forms. This policy applies to all people working for or on behalf of Storage Merton Park, including employees, agency workers, contractors, consultants and suppliers. We will not knowingly engage with any party that condones, is involved in or fails to take adequate steps to prevent modern slavery practices.
Any suspected breach of this commitment is treated with the utmost seriousness. Where credible concerns are identified, we will act promptly, which may include suspending engagement, terminating contracts and reporting matters to relevant authorities where appropriate.
Policies and Governance
Our approach to modern slavery risk is supported by internal policies that set expectations for ethical behaviour, respect for human rights and compliance with applicable law. These policies are communicated to staff as part of induction and ongoing training where relevant to their role. Managers are expected to lead by example and to promote a culture in which exploitation is never tolerated and concerns can be raised safely.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We recognise that the greatest risk of modern slavery often lies within complex supply chains. To address this, we conduct proportionate due diligence before entering new supplier relationships and when renewing key contracts. This may include reviewing the supplier’s own modern slavery measures, ethical sourcing practices and labour standards.
Where we consider the risk to be higher, we may require additional assurances, contractual commitments or evidence of independent accreditation. We reserve the right to carry out audits or site visits, either directly or through competent third parties, to verify that suppliers are meeting our expectations. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to demonstrate adequate safeguards, we will consider appropriate remedial action, including ending the business relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Storage Merton Park encourages anyone connected with our business to report concerns about potential modern slavery, whether relating to our own operations or those of our suppliers and contractors. Concerns may be raised through internal reporting lines, to line managers, senior management or other designated contacts within the business.
We are committed to ensuring that individuals who raise genuine concerns in good faith do so without fear of retaliation or detrimental treatment. All reports will be handled sensitively, and information will be shared only with those who need it to investigate and address the issue. Where appropriate, we will cooperate with law enforcement or regulatory bodies.
Training and Awareness
We aim to increase awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, particularly those involved in procurement, facilities management and supplier oversight. Training and guidance focus on recognising indicators of exploitation, understanding how modern slavery can occur in supply chains and knowing how to escalate concerns.
Monitoring, Annual Review and Continuous Improvement
We understand that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process. Storage Merton Park will review this statement and our related procedures at least annually, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation or our operations. As part of this review, we will assess the effectiveness of our controls, due diligence and training and identify opportunities for improvement.
Outcomes from supplier audits, reported concerns and internal reviews will inform our priorities for the coming year. We are committed to enhancing our approach over time, working collaboratively with staff, suppliers and other stakeholders to minimise the risk of modern slavery and to promote responsible and transparent business practices throughout our operations and supply chains.
