Modern Slavery Statement for Southborough Storage

Southborough Storage is committed to conducting business with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent slavery, servitude, forced labor, and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery can affect many industries, and we take a zero-tolerance approach to any form of exploitation. Our commitment applies to employees, contractors, and suppliers alike, and it is embedded in our wider ethical standards.

As a storage provider, we understand that responsible business practices must extend beyond our own premises. We therefore expect all business partners to share our anti-slavery principles and to uphold fair working conditions. Southborough Storage aims to identify risks early, act decisively where concerns arise, and maintain a culture in which human dignity is protected. Our policies are reviewed to ensure they remain effective and aligned with current expectations.

Our approach begins with risk awareness. We assess where vulnerability may exist in our operations, particularly in outsourced services, cleaning, maintenance, construction, transport, and procurement. By understanding these risks, Southborough Storage can take practical steps to reduce exposure to exploitation. We expect managers to remain alert to warning signs such as restricted freedom, withheld wages, excessive working hours, or poor accommodation linked to work arrangements.

Supplier audits are a key part of our control framework. We carry out proportionate checks on selected suppliers and service providers to confirm that they meet our ethical requirements. These audits may include document reviews, policy verification, and assessments of labor practices. Where concerns are identified, we require corrective action and may suspend or end the relationship if standards are not met. This helps reinforce the expectations of the Southborough Storage modern slavery policy.

We also build prevention into our procurement process. New suppliers are asked to confirm their commitment to lawful employment, responsible recruitment, and safe working conditions. Contract terms include provisions that allow us to investigate serious concerns and request evidence of compliance. Where appropriate, we seek reassurance that workers are free from coercion, debt bondage, or passport retention. These measures support our broader commitment to ethical sourcing.

Training and awareness are essential to our response. Employees involved in hiring, procurement, and supplier management receive guidance on recognising potential indicators of modern slavery and on taking appropriate action. This training helps staff understand how exploitation may present in subtle ways and reinforces the importance of reporting concerns promptly. We aim to ensure that every team member understands their role in protecting vulnerable people.

We provide clear reporting channels for anyone who suspects wrongdoing. Concerns can be raised internally through line managers, senior leadership, or designated safeguarding routes. Reports may be made confidentially, and we do not tolerate retaliation against anyone who speaks up in good faith. Where a concern is raised, it is treated seriously, investigated promptly, and escalated where necessary. This openness supports accountability across the organization.

Our response process is designed to be fair and effective. If an allegation suggests modern slavery or related abuse, we will assess the risk, protect affected individuals where possible, and work with relevant specialists or authorities when appropriate. We document actions taken and use findings to improve our controls. Southborough Storage believes that vigilance, transparency, and decisive intervention are essential to preventing harm.

We understand that modern slavery risks can change over time as markets, suppliers, and operating models evolve. For that reason, our statement and supporting controls are reviewed annually to ensure they remain suitable and effective. The annual review considers incidents, audit outcomes, training activity, supplier performance, and any changes in legislation or good practice. Recommendations from this review are used to strengthen our policies and procedures.

This statement reflects the values of Southborough Storage and our ongoing commitment to responsible business conduct. We will continue to strengthen our safeguards, encourage reporting, and expect high standards from those who work with us. Through a zero-tolerance policy, regular supplier audits, accessible reporting channels, and annual review, we aim to play our part in preventing modern slavery in all forms.

Our Commitment in Practice

Core Principles

• Zero tolerance for slavery, forced labor, and human trafficking
• Supplier audits and corrective action where risks are identified
• Confidential reporting channels and non-retaliation protections
• Annual review of risks, controls, and training