Storage Ratcliff Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Storage Ratcliff in respect of the financial year ending 31 December and sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. Storage Ratcliff is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and with integrity, and to respecting the human rights of everyone affected by our activities.
Modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights and includes slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, debt bondage, and human trafficking. We recognise that all businesses have a responsibility to be vigilant, to identify risks, and to work actively to prevent exploitation in any form.
Zero-Tolerance Approach
Storage Ratcliff has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not accept any form of forced, bonded, or compulsory labour in our own operations or within our supply chains. We expect the same high standards from all our suppliers, contractors, and other business partners. Any breach or suspected breach of this policy will be treated as a serious matter and may result in the termination of business relationships and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.
Our zero-tolerance stance is embedded in our internal policies and codes of conduct, which apply to all employees, agency workers, and contractors working on our behalf. We communicate our expectations through induction, ongoing training, and regular internal communications, ensuring that our people understand the signs of modern slavery and how to report concerns.
Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits
Storage Ratcliff aims to work only with suppliers and partners who share our commitment to ethical labour practices and human rights. As part of our procurement processes, we assess potential suppliers for their compliance with modern slavery and human trafficking legislation, as well as their broader ethical and environmental standards.
We require suppliers to confirm that they do not use forced or trafficked labour and that they have appropriate policies and controls in place in their own operations and supply chains. These requirements are reflected in our contractual terms and supplier standards, which we expect all partners to meet and maintain.
To reinforce our expectations, Storage Ratcliff undertakes risk-based supplier audits and assessments. These audits may include requests for documentation, on-site visits where appropriate, and follow-up actions to address any gaps identified. We prioritise audits in higher-risk sectors, regions, and categories of goods and services. Where non-compliance is identified, we work with suppliers to develop corrective action plans and monitor their implementation. If serious or repeated failures persist, we reserve the right to review and, if necessary, terminate the relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Storage Ratcliff encourages anyone who has concerns about possible modern slavery or human trafficking in our operations or supply chains to report these concerns without delay. We support a speak-up culture where employees, contractors, and other stakeholders can raise issues in good faith, without fear of retaliation or disadvantage.
Concerns can be raised with line managers, senior management, or through our internal reporting mechanisms. All reports are taken seriously and are handled sensitively, with appropriate steps taken to investigate, address identified issues, and protect those who report. Where required, we cooperate fully with law enforcement and regulatory bodies.
We promote awareness of modern slavery and our reporting channels through training and internal communications. This helps to ensure that our people can recognise indicators of exploitation and understand the correct process for escalating concerns.
Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement
Storage Ratcliff recognises the importance of training and awareness in preventing modern slavery. Relevant employees, especially those involved in procurement, human resources, and site management, receive training on identifying potential risks in supply chains and on our reporting procedures. We also share guidance and expectations with key suppliers to encourage alignment with our standards.
We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach. We periodically review our risk assessments, due diligence processes, and supplier engagement to strengthen our ability to detect and prevent modern slavery. Feedback from audits, incident investigations, and stakeholder engagement is used to refine our policies and practices.
Governance and Annual Review
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior leadership of Storage Ratcliff. They ensure that appropriate resources are allocated, that policies remain effective, and that significant risks or incidents are escalated and addressed.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually to reflect any changes in legislation, best practice, or the structure and activities of Storage Ratcliff. As part of this review, we evaluate the effectiveness of our measures, including supplier audits, training, and reporting mechanisms, and identify opportunities to enhance our controls.
This statement has been approved by the leadership of Storage Ratcliff and will be updated each year to summarise the actions taken and planned to combat modern slavery and human trafficking across our operations and supply chains.
