Modern Slavery Statement for Westham Storage

Westham Storage is committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent slavery, forced labor, human trafficking, and other forms of exploitation within our operations and supply chain. We recognise that modern slavery can take many forms and may exist in sectors and regions far removed from our own direct activities. For that reason, our approach is grounded in vigilance, due diligence, and continuous improvement.

Our zero-tolerance policy applies to all employees, contractors, agency workers, suppliers, and business partners. We do not accept any practice that involves coercion, deception, debt bondage, withheld wages, document retention, child labor, or any other abuse of basic rights. Every person working with or for Westham Storage must be treated fairly and lawfully, and we expect the same standard from those in our supply network. Breaches of this policy may result in immediate corrective action, suspension, or termination of the relationship.

To support this commitment, Westham Storage integrates modern slavery prevention into procurement and supplier onboarding. We assess new and existing suppliers based on risk factors such as geography, labor practices, and the nature of the goods or services provided. Where appropriate, suppliers must confirm compliance with our expectations and provide evidence of their own policies and controls. This helps us identify risks early and reinforce responsible sourcing across our storage business and related operations.

A key part of our program is the use of supplier audits. These may include desktop reviews, document checks, site visits, and follow-up assessments where concerns are identified. We reserve the right to request records related to working hours, wage payments, right-to-work checks, subcontracting arrangements, and worker welfare. If a supplier is found to present a significant risk, we may require a corrective action plan, enhanced monitoring, or a change in commercial terms. Our goal is not only compliance, but the active elimination of exploitative practices from our Westham Storage supply chain.

We also believe that effective prevention depends on awareness. Employees involved in procurement, operations, and management receive guidance on recognising warning signs and escalating concerns promptly. Indicators may include restricted movement, unusual recruitment fees, unexplained deductions, intimidation, or a lack of freedom to leave employment. By building understanding throughout the organisation, we strengthen our ability to detect and respond to issues before harm occurs. This is an essential part of maintaining a responsible modern slavery framework.

Anyone who suspects wrongdoing can use our reporting channels to raise a concern safely and in confidence. Reports may be made through internal management routes, designated compliance processes, or other approved whistleblowing mechanisms. We encourage concerns to be raised as early as possible, and we prohibit retaliation against any person who reports in good faith. All allegations are reviewed promptly, discreetly, and with appropriate escalation where needed. Where modern slavery is suspected, we will cooperate with relevant authorities and take action proportionate to the circumstances.

Westham Storage understands that modern slavery risks evolve, which is why we carry out an annual review of this statement, our policies, and our controls. The review considers changes in legislation, operational activities, supplier risk profiles, and lessons learned from audits or investigations. Where improvements are identified, we update our procedures and strengthen training, monitoring, and governance measures. This ongoing review demonstrates our commitment to continuous improvement rather than one-time compliance.

We expect our suppliers to share our values and to maintain transparent, lawful, and ethical employment practices. In practical terms, this means keeping accurate records, using fair recruitment methods, respecting worker freedom, and ensuring that subcontractors meet the same standards. If a supplier cannot meet these requirements, we will work with them to improve where possible, but we will not compromise on our principles. Our zero-tolerance stance remains central to how we conduct business.

This statement reflects the responsibility we place on ourselves and on those who represent us. Modern slavery is a serious crime and a profound violation of human dignity, and Westham Storage is determined to play its part in preventing it. Through supplier audits, clear reporting channels, annual review, and a zero-tolerance policy, we aim to uphold ethical standards throughout our operations and supply chain. By maintaining these controls and reinforcing accountability, Westham Storage continues to support a workplace and supply network built on respect, transparency, and lawful conduct.