Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps taken by Storage Osterley to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation in our operations and supply chains. Storage Osterley recognises its responsibility to uphold and promote fundamental human rights and to act with integrity and transparency in all business dealings.
Our Organisation and Supply Chain
Storage Osterley operates storage and related services for a range of customers, including individuals and businesses. Our supply chain includes providers of facilities management, security, cleaning, equipment, packaging materials, information technology, and professional services. We understand that modern slavery can occur in any country or sector, and we remain alert to potential risks in our supply chain, particularly in higher-risk categories such as facilities, construction, maintenance, and agency labour.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
Storage Osterley has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. We are committed to ensuring that workers are treated with dignity and respect, receive fair pay, and work voluntarily. Any form of forced, bonded, or compulsory labour, servitude, or exploitation is strictly prohibited within our business and among those with whom we work.
We require all colleagues, contractors, and suppliers to comply with applicable laws relating to modern slavery and human rights. We do not knowingly engage with any organisation involved in such practices and reserve the right to terminate relationships where non-compliance is identified and not promptly addressed.
Supplier Standards and Due Diligence
As part of our commitment, Storage Osterley expects all suppliers and service providers to share our values and adhere to ethical standards. We apply a risk-based approach to due diligence, taking into account the nature of the goods or services supplied, the geographic location, and any recognised sector risks.
Our supplier expectations include:
Ensuring employment is freely chosen and workers have freedom of movement. Prohibiting child labour and adhering to minimum working age laws. Providing safe working conditions and appropriate health and safety protections. Paying wages that meet or exceed legal minimums and ensuring lawful working hours. Respecting the right to freedom of association and collective bargaining where applicable.
Supplier Audits and Monitoring
Storage Osterley undertakes supplier assessments and audits on a risk-prioritised basis. These may include questionnaires, site visits, requests for supporting documentation, and follow-up reviews. Where higher risks are identified, we may conduct more frequent or detailed assessments and require corrective action plans.
If a supplier is found to be in breach of our standards relating to modern slavery, we will work with them to remedy the situation where appropriate. Serious or persistent breaches, or a failure to implement agreed improvements, may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing
Storage Osterley encourages all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions about modern slavery or exploitation. Reports may include concerns about working conditions, recruitment practices, treatment of workers, or any indicator that someone may be a victim of modern slavery.
Concerns can be raised through internal reporting channels including line managers or designated senior managers. Reports will be taken seriously, treated sensitively, and investigated promptly. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated following investigation.
Training and Awareness
Storage Osterley seeks to build awareness of modern slavery risks among relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, supplier management, facilities, and recruitment. Training and guidance are provided so that colleagues understand how to identify warning signs and know how to escalate any concerns.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach to tackling modern slavery. Each year, Storage Osterley will review this statement and our supporting processes to assess their effectiveness and to identify opportunities for enhancement. This includes evaluating supplier audit findings, reported concerns, training outcomes, and any changes in legal or regulatory expectations.
Following the annual review, we may update our policies, strengthen contractual requirements, refine our risk assessments, or increase audit coverage. Our aim is to maintain robust and proportionate measures that help prevent modern slavery within both our business and supply chains.
Approval of this Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement has been approved by the senior management of Storage Osterley, who are responsible for ensuring its implementation and ongoing review. It reflects our commitment to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard against modern slavery.
