Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made on behalf of Storage Maida Vale for the financial year ending 31 December. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Storage Maida Vale recognises that modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights and is committed to operating responsibly, ethically, and transparently.
Our Business and Supply Chain
Storage Maida Vale provides storage and related services to individuals and organisations. Our activities are primarily based in the United Kingdom, and our supply chain includes providers of building maintenance, security, cleaning, equipment, utilities, and professional services. While we consider our sector to be relatively low risk, we acknowledge that no organisation is immune from the risk of modern slavery, and we are committed to continuous improvement in identifying and mitigating those risks.
Zero-Tolerance Approach
Storage Maida Vale maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, servitude, and human trafficking. We expect the same high standards from all who work with us and on our behalf, including employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers. Any involvement in modern slavery is entirely incompatible with our values and with the standards of behaviour we require.
Our zero-tolerance approach is embedded in our policies, procedures, and supplier relationships. We make it clear that any breach of our standards may result in the termination of contracts, removal from approved supplier lists, and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.
Policies and Governance
Our internal policies support our commitment to preventing modern slavery. These include policies relating to ethical conduct, recruitment, equal opportunities, whistleblowing, health and safety, and supplier management. These policies are reviewed periodically to ensure they remain aligned with legislation, best practice, and the evolving risk landscape.
Senior management is responsible for overseeing our approach to modern slavery. They ensure that relevant controls are implemented, monitored, and communicated across the business, and that any concerns raised are dealt with promptly and appropriately.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We recognise that the greatest risk of modern slavery often lies within supply chains. Storage Maida Vale is committed to working only with suppliers who uphold similar values and standards. As part of our supplier due diligence, we assess the ethical and labour practices of key suppliers and consider modern slavery risks when appointing or renewing suppliers.
We reserve the right to conduct supplier audits, either directly or through third parties, to verify compliance with our expectations. These audits may include reviewing working conditions, recruitment practices, and documentation regarding labour standards. Where concerns are identified, we will work with suppliers on corrective action plans and, if necessary, reconsider the commercial relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Storage Maida Vale encourages the reporting of any concerns related to modern slavery or unethical behaviour. Employees, contractors, and suppliers are encouraged to raise concerns through established internal channels or directly with management, without fear of retaliation or disadvantage.
We treat all reports seriously and confidentially, and we will investigate them promptly and fairly. Where a concern relates to potential modern slavery, we will take appropriate steps to protect individuals at risk, implement corrective measures, and, when necessary, engage with relevant external bodies.
Training and Awareness
We aim to raise awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, particularly those involved in procurement, facilities management, and supplier relationships. Training and guidance focus on recognising potential indicators of modern slavery, understanding reporting channels, and reinforcing our zero-tolerance stance.
We also encourage open dialogue so that employees feel confident discussing potential risks or improvements in our approach to ethical sourcing and labour practices.
Monitoring and Annual Review
Storage Maida Vale is committed to continuous improvement in its efforts to combat modern slavery. We monitor our practices, track any incidents or concerns raised, and review the effectiveness of our controls and procedures.
This statement and our wider approach to modern slavery will be reviewed at least annually by senior management. The review will consider changes in legislation, best practice guidance, risk assessments, audit outcomes, and any issues identified through our reporting channels. Where improvements are identified, we will update our policies, training, and supplier engagement processes accordingly.
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement has been approved by the management of Storage Maida Vale and will be updated each year to reflect our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery in all aspects of our business and supply chain.
