Modern Slavery Statement for Richmond upon Thames Storage

Richmond upon Thames Storage is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and with integrity. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out our approach to preventing slavery, servitude, forced labour, and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery can occur in many forms and across many sectors, and we take our responsibility seriously. Our commitment is based on a zero-tolerance policy toward any practice that exploits or coerces individuals. We expect the same standards from everyone who works with or for us.

As a storage business serving customers and relying on multiple suppliers, we understand the importance of vigilance. Our business activities may involve contractors, logistics providers, maintenance teams, cleaning services, and equipment suppliers. Each relationship is reviewed with care, and we aim to ensure that our operations support fair treatment, lawful employment, and safe working conditions. This statement reflects our ongoing dedication to identifying and addressing risks of modern slavery within the Richmond upon Thames storage environment and across the wider supply chain.

We have embedded our commitment through internal policies and procedures that promote ethical decision-making. Recruitment processes are designed to verify the right to work and reduce the risk of deceptive hiring practices. Managers are trained to recognise warning signs, including restricted movement, retention of identity documents, unusual control over wages, or signs of intimidation. We encourage a culture in which concerns can be raised early and handled appropriately. Any suspicion of abuse is treated as a serious matter and investigated without delay.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

Supplier management is a critical part of our anti-slavery approach. Before engaging a new supplier, we consider its reputation, labour practices, and compliance history. We require suppliers to confirm that they operate in line with applicable labour laws and ethical standards. Where appropriate, we include contractual obligations that prohibit modern slavery and allow us to act if breaches are identified. This helps ensure that the Richmond upon Thames Storage modern slavery safeguards extend beyond our direct operations.

We carry out supplier audits on a risk-based basis. Higher-risk suppliers may be subject to more frequent reviews, document checks, and site visits. Audits focus on areas such as worker payment, recruitment practices, working hours, freedom of movement, and the use of subcontractors. Findings are recorded and followed up with corrective action plans where needed. If a supplier fails to meet our standards, we reserve the right to suspend or end the relationship. These measures help us maintain robust oversight of our supply chain and encourage continuous improvement.

Our approach also includes ongoing monitoring of supplier performance. We look for indicators such as unexplained labour turnover, inconsistent records, or subcontracting arrangements that have not been disclosed. Where appropriate, we ask suppliers to provide evidence of their own anti-slavery policies and due diligence processes. We believe that collaboration, transparency, and accountability are essential in preventing exploitation. By strengthening supplier controls, we reduce the risk that our services may be linked to modern slavery in any form.

Reporting Channels and Escalation

We are committed to ensuring that concerns can be reported safely and without fear of retaliation. Employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to raise suspicions promptly through the appropriate internal reporting channels. Reports may relate to unsafe labour practices, coercion, document retention, wage withholding, or any behaviour that appears exploitative. All concerns are handled confidentially and reviewed by trained personnel. Where necessary, we escalate issues to senior management for immediate action and further investigation.

Our reporting framework supports a clear, accessible, and responsive process for addressing concerns. Individuals are encouraged to share information in good faith, and allegations are assessed carefully using evidence-based procedures. We recognise that victims of modern slavery may be unable to speak freely, so we maintain a sensitive and respectful approach in all investigations. In addition to internal escalation, we cooperate with relevant authorities and external specialists where appropriate. This approach reinforces our determination to prevent harm and protect vulnerable individuals.

Richmond upon Thames Storage also promotes awareness across the organisation so that people know how to recognise and report warning signs. Regular communication helps reinforce our expectations and supports a workplace culture grounded in ethics and respect. If a concern is substantiated, we take proportionate remedial action, which may include training, contractual remedies, suspension of work, or termination of the business relationship. Our goal is not only compliance, but also meaningful prevention and responsible conduct throughout our operations.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with best practice. The review considers changes in legislation, supply chain structure, business activities, and emerging risk indicators. We also assess the results of audits, investigations, training activity, and reported concerns to identify opportunities for improvement. The annual review is an important part of how we maintain accountability and strengthen our response to modern slavery risks.

Where improvements are identified, we update policies, revise supplier requirements, and refresh staff guidance as needed. We recognise that preventing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility that requires attention, consistency, and leadership. By maintaining a zero-tolerance stance, applying supplier audits, supporting reporting channels, and completing an annual review, Richmonduponthames Storage reaffirms its commitment to ethical business practices and the protection of human rights across its operations and supply chains.

Statement approved by management and maintained as part of our wider commitment to responsible governance. We will continue to monitor our practices and strengthen our controls so that the Richmond upon Thames storage modern slavery statement remains a practical and effective expression of our values.