Modern Slavery Statement for Stratford Storage

Stratford Storage is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and with full respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent slavery, servitude, forced labour, and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that storage, logistics, maintenance, cleaning, and procurement activities may involve risks if proper controls are not maintained. For that reason, our approach is built on vigilance, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Our zero-tolerance policy applies to all employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers. We do not permit any form of exploitation, whether direct or indirect, and we expect every business partner to uphold the same standard. If any concerns arise, they are treated seriously and investigated promptly. Where breaches are identified, Stratford Storage will take decisive action, which may include corrective measures, suspension of work, or termination of relationships in line with contractual obligations.

We support this policy through mandatory internal training, clear procurement standards, and regular risk assessments. Staff involved in recruitment, purchasing, and supplier management are trained to recognise warning signs such as restricted movement, withheld documents, unexplained debt, or intimidation. By maintaining awareness across the organisation, Stratford Storage modern slavery controls remain practical and effective, rather than purely procedural.

Supplier oversight is central to our prevention strategy. Stratford Storage expects suppliers to operate lawfully, treat workers fairly, and provide safe working conditions. We use proportionate supplier audits to assess compliance, focusing on labour practices, subcontracting chains, recruitment methods, and wage transparency. Audits may include document reviews, site visits, worker interviews where appropriate, and follow-up checks when risks are elevated. The aim is not only to detect problems but to encourage improvement and responsible business conduct.

Where audit findings indicate weakness, suppliers are asked to implement corrective actions within agreed timeframes. Continued non-compliance may lead to reduced business, enhanced monitoring, or removal from our approved supplier base. Stratford Storage also expects suppliers to report any suspected exploitation within their own operations or extended supply chains. Through this approach, our Stratford Storage modern slavery statement supports both prevention and remediation.

Reporting concerns is essential to an effective safeguarding culture. Stratford Storage maintains accessible reporting channels for employees, workers, and business partners so that concerns can be raised without delay. Reports may be made through line management, HR, or other designated internal routes, and we encourage early escalation of anything that appears unusual or unsafe. All reports are handled confidentially wherever possible, and retaliation against anyone raising a genuine concern is prohibited.

To strengthen trust in the process, we ensure that concerns are assessed fairly, recorded appropriately, and investigated by the relevant people. If evidence suggests modern slavery or another serious labour abuse, we will cooperate with the appropriate authorities and take immediate steps to protect those at risk. Our reporting process is designed to support openness, protect vulnerable individuals, and reinforce the message that exploitation has no place in Stratford Storage operations.

We review our controls on an annual basis to confirm they remain suitable and effective. This annual review considers supplier audit results, training completion, reported concerns, remediation progress, and any changes in business structure or supply-chain risk. It also allows us to update procedures in response to emerging risks and lessons learned. The review is overseen by senior management, ensuring accountability at the highest level and helping maintain a consistent modern slavery prevention framework.

In addition to the formal review cycle, Stratford Storage seeks ongoing improvement through regular monitoring and management oversight. This includes reassessing higher-risk suppliers, refreshing staff guidance, and reinforcing expectations in procurement decisions. Our commitment is not static: it is embedded in how we work, how we select partners, and how we respond when standards fall short.

Stratford Storage remains firmly committed to ethical business practice and to eliminating exploitation wherever it may appear. By applying a zero-tolerance policy, conducting supplier audits, offering clear reporting channels, and completing an annual review, we aim to prevent modern slavery and protect the dignity of every individual connected with our business. This statement reflects our current practices and our continuing responsibility to improve them.