Modern Slavery Statement for Storage Marks Gate
Storage Marks Gate is committed to conducting all aspects of its business in an ethical, transparent and responsible manner. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, contractors and suppliers engaged by Storage Marks Gate.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
We have a zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced or compulsory labour and the exploitation of children and vulnerable people. We do not, under any circumstances, accept practices that are incompatible with respect for human rights and dignity. This commitment is endorsed by our senior management team and is embedded within our wider approach to ethical business conduct.
All individuals working for or on behalf of Storage Marks Gate are expected to uphold this standard. We communicate our zero-tolerance stance clearly in our internal policies, contractual terms and supplier expectations. Any confirmed breach of this policy may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts or referral to the relevant authorities.
Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits
Our supply chains include providers of storage equipment, facility maintenance, security services, utilities, technology solutions and professional services. We expect all suppliers to operate in full compliance with applicable labour, employment and human rights laws and to share our commitment to eradicating modern slavery.
As part of our supplier due diligence, we assess prospective and existing suppliers for ethical, labour and human rights risks. Where appropriate, we conduct or commission audits to verify compliance with our standards. These audits may include reviewing employment practices, wage records, working hours, use of labour agencies, recruitment methods and health and safety arrangements.
If an audit or assessment identifies concerns, we will work with the supplier to agree corrective actions and timeframes. Where issues are serious, repeated or unresolved, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the business relationship. We are committed to continuous improvement and encourage suppliers to strengthen their own controls against modern slavery.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels
We encourage employees, contractors, suppliers and other stakeholders to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery or human trafficking connected with Storage Marks Gate. Reports can be made to line managers, senior management or through established internal reporting procedures. Individuals who raise concerns in good faith will not suffer retaliation or detrimental treatment for doing so.
We treat all reports seriously and, where appropriate, conduct prompt and confidential investigations. Where allegations are substantiated, we will take suitable remedial actions, which may include supporting affected individuals, revising our internal controls, engaging with suppliers to implement corrective measures or, where necessary, notifying law enforcement or regulatory bodies.
Training, Awareness and Risk Management
We recognise that awareness and understanding are essential to preventing modern slavery. Relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management and facilities operations, are provided with guidance on identifying potential indicators of modern slavery and escalating concerns appropriately.
We periodically review our operations and supply chains to identify areas of higher risk. Factors we consider include geographic location, type of service or product, use of temporary or migrant labour and reliance on subcontracting. Our findings help us prioritise audits, strengthen contractual clauses and enhance monitoring arrangements where needed.
Monitoring, Governance and Annual Review
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery sits with senior management, who review key risks, incidents and improvement actions. We monitor compliance with this statement through our supplier management processes, internal reporting channels and periodic policy reviews.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every year to reflect changes in our business operations, legal requirements and best practice. As part of the annual review, we assess the effectiveness of our measures, including supplier audits, training initiatives and reporting mechanisms. Where opportunities for improvement are identified, we update our policies, procedures and contractual requirements accordingly.
By publishing this statement, Storage Marks Gate reiterates its commitment to playing an active role in combatting modern slavery and human trafficking, and to working collaboratively with employees, suppliers and stakeholders to promote safe, fair and ethical working conditions throughout our operations and supply chains.
