Modern Slavery Statement for Southfields Storage
Southfields Storage is committed to conducting business with integrity, transparency, and respect for human dignity. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and other forms of exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that the risks of modern slavery can exist in many sectors, including warehousing, logistics, cleaning, maintenance, and procurement. For that reason, we apply a zero-tolerance policy to any practice that violates labour rights or undermines personal freedom.
Our approach is grounded in clear governance and responsibility. Senior management oversees our anti-slavery commitments, while day-to-day procedures are carried out across departments to ensure that the Southfields Storage modern slavery policy is embedded in practice. We expect all employees, agency workers, contractors, and business partners to share this commitment and to act ethically at all times. The prevention of exploitation is not treated as a one-time exercise, but as an ongoing responsibility built into our decision-making and supplier relationships.
We also require our suppliers to uphold the same standards. Before engaging with new suppliers, we carry out due diligence checks that assess labour practices, ownership structures, and country or sector-specific risks. Existing suppliers may be subject to supplier audits and periodic reviews, especially where services involve labour-intensive work or higher-risk procurement categories. These audits may include document verification, workforce checks, and questions on recruitment practices, wages, working hours, and the use of subcontractors.
Our Policies and Controls
Southfields Storage applies contractual safeguards to reinforce our expectations. Supplier agreements include obligations to comply with applicable labour laws, to prohibit the use of forced or trafficked labour, and to cooperate fully with audit and remediation requirements. Where risks are identified, we seek corrective action plans with clear timelines. If a supplier fails to address serious concerns, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship. This firm approach supports the integrity of the Southfields Storage anti-slavery statement and reduces the likelihood of abuse within our supply chain.
Training and awareness are also essential. Relevant staff receive guidance on recognising warning signs such as restricted movement, withheld identity documents, unusual recruitment fees, unsafe living conditions, or signs of coercion. Employees are encouraged to remain alert when managing contractors or reviewing invoices and labour arrangements. By strengthening awareness, we help ensure that the modern slavery statement for Southfields Storage is not only documented, but actively understood and applied across the business.
Reporting and Escalation
We maintain safe and accessible reporting channels so that concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation. Any employee, supplier representative, or other stakeholder who suspects exploitation is encouraged to report the matter promptly through internal management routes or established whistleblowing procedures. All reports are treated seriously, handled confidentially where appropriate, and assessed by responsible managers. Concerns may lead to investigation, suspension of trading activity, or referral to relevant authorities if required.
We do not tolerate victimisation of anyone who raises a genuine concern. Protecting whistleblowers is vital to maintaining trust and to ensuring that issues are identified early. Where a potential breach of our standards is found, we will act proportionately and decisively, prioritising the safety and rights of affected individuals. Our aim is always to prevent harm, support remediation where possible, and strengthen controls so that the same issue does not recur.
Annual Review and Continuous Improvement This statement is reviewed at least annually to reflect changes in legislation, business operations, and emerging risk factors. The review considers audit findings, supplier performance, staff training outcomes, and any reports or investigations relating to labour exploitation. Findings from this process are used to update policies, refine due diligence, and improve monitoring. Through this annual review, Southfields Storage reinforces its commitment to ethical conduct and continuous improvement across the business and its supply network.
Our commitment to preventing modern slavery remains constant. By combining a zero-tolerance stance, robust supplier audits, clear reporting channels, and an annual review process, Southfields Storage works to uphold fundamental human rights and ensure that our operations are conducted responsibly. We expect everyone associated with the business to support these principles and to help maintain a safe, fair, and lawful working environment.