Modern Slavery Statement for Paddington Storage
Paddington Storage is committed to operating with integrity, respect, and accountability across every part of our business. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery can take many forms, including coercion, debt bondage, child labour, and abusive working conditions, and we take a zero-tolerance approach to any practice that violates human rights.
Our approach is rooted in the belief that responsible business practices protect workers and strengthen trust. We expect all employees, contractors, and business partners to act in line with our ethical standards. Paddington Storage understands that the risk of modern slavery may be higher in certain sectors and locations, which is why we review our activities with care and apply appropriate controls. Our policies are designed to promote fair treatment, lawful employment, and safe working conditions at all levels of the organisation.
We also require our suppliers to meet the same standards. Before entering into a new commercial relationship, we assess whether a supplier demonstrates a clear commitment to lawful labour practices, responsible recruitment, and transparent operations. Where necessary, we request additional information, evidence of compliance, and confirmation of their own anti-slavery measures. If concerns arise, we expect prompt corrective action. Persistent non-compliance may result in suspension or termination of the relationship.
Supplier audits are an important part of our due diligence process. Paddington Storage carries out proportionate reviews of selected suppliers, focusing on areas where the risk of exploitation may be greater. These audits may include document checks, workforce policies, payroll practices, and verification of subcontracting arrangements. We aim to identify risks early and to encourage improvement through clear expectations and follow-up monitoring. When issues are identified, we seek evidence of remediation and may require enhanced oversight before continuing the relationship.
Training and awareness are also essential. Employees involved in procurement, supplier management, and contract renewal receive guidance on how to recognise warning signs of modern slavery and how to apply our internal controls. This includes understanding unusual wage deductions, excessive working hours, restricted movement, or signs of intimidation. By strengthening awareness, we help ensure that potential risks are identified before harm occurs. We believe that a strong paddington storage modern slavery policy depends on informed people acting decisively and responsibly.
Reporting channels are available to support openness and accountability. Anyone connected with our business may raise concerns about suspected modern slavery, unethical recruitment, or unsafe labour conditions through our internal reporting processes. Reports are handled seriously, investigated promptly, and treated with discretion where appropriate. We do not permit retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. This protection encourages early reporting and helps us respond quickly to possible abuse within our Paddington Storage operations or supply chain.
The responsibility for implementation sits with senior management, supported by relevant teams across procurement, operations, and compliance. We monitor progress against our controls throughout the year and review the effectiveness of our actions against identified risks. Where business relationships, market conditions, or legal expectations change, we update our methods accordingly. Our aim is not only to comply with legal requirements, but to maintain a culture in which exploitation has no place in any form.
Annual review is a key part of our commitment. This statement, together with our related procedures, is reviewed at least once every year to ensure it remains current, effective, and proportionate to the risks we face. The review considers audit findings, reported concerns, supplier performance, training uptake, and any changes in legislation or guidance. Findings from the review inform future improvements and help shape the next cycle of action. In this way, the Paddington Storage anti-slavery statement remains a living commitment rather than a static document.
Through these measures, Paddington Storage seeks to uphold dignity, legality, and fairness throughout its business relationships. Our zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, reporting channels, and annual review process form the foundation of our ongoing response to modern slavery risks. We are committed to continuous improvement and to taking practical steps that help prevent exploitation wherever we operate.