Modern Slavery Statement for Cockfosters Storage

Cockfosters 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 help prevent slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery can take many forms, including deceptive recruitment, debt bondage, and the withholding of personal freedom. Our approach is based on vigilance, responsible management, and continuous improvement.

We maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward modern slavery and expect the same standard from everyone who works with us. This applies to employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers at every level. Our position is clear: any confirmed involvement in modern slavery or serious labour abuse may result in immediate termination of business relationships and, where appropriate, referral to the relevant authorities. We believe that protecting people is a fundamental responsibility, not an optional standard.

As part of our due diligence, we assess modern slavery risks within our procurement and supplier relationships. Cockfosters Storage seeks to work with reputable partners who share our ethical values and can demonstrate lawful employment practices. Before onboarding new suppliers, we review available information about ownership, workforce practices, and operating standards. Higher-risk relationships may be subject to enhanced checks, including document reviews and direct confirmation of labour practices.

Supplier monitoring is an ongoing process, not a one-time exercise. We carry out supplier audits and periodic reviews to help verify compliance with our expectations on fair treatment, lawful pay, and safe working conditions. Where concerns arise, we expect prompt corrective action and may suspend or end the relationship if progress is insufficient. Modern slavery prevention remains a shared responsibility, and our audits help reinforce accountability throughout the supply chain.

Training and awareness are important parts of our response. Relevant staff are encouraged to recognise warning signs such as unusual recruitment fees, restricted movement, inconsistent pay records, or signs of coercion. Internal procedures support careful decision-making when engaging third parties, and managers are reminded to act quickly if any concern is raised. This culture of awareness helps strengthen the protections already in place and supports early intervention.

We provide clear reporting channels so that concerns about modern slavery can be raised safely and in confidence. Anyone who suspects exploitation, mistreatment, or unethical labour practices is encouraged to report it through the appropriate internal route without delay. Reports are treated seriously, investigated carefully, and escalated where necessary. We do not tolerate victimisation of anyone who raises a concern in good faith. Our commitment is to ensure that issues are handled respectfully and that action is taken when risks are identified.

Risk management also extends to our relationships with labour providers, maintenance contractors, and other service partners. We expect all third parties to uphold the same ethical standards we apply internally. When necessary, we request confirmation of workforce eligibility, recruitment procedures, and compliance with applicable employment law. Cockfosters Storage understands that modern slavery risks can be hidden and complex, so we aim to remain alert, inquisitive, and proactive in identifying possible warning signs.

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant and effective. The annual review considers changes in legislation, business operations, supplier profiles, and identified risks. Findings from audits, investigations, and training activities inform any updates to our policies and procedures. By reviewing our approach each year, we strengthen our ability to prevent exploitation and improve our ethical standards over time.

Modern slavery prevention is embedded in our wider commitment to responsible business conduct. We will continue to strengthen supplier oversight, support open reporting, and apply our zero-tolerance policy consistently. Through regular review and practical action, Cockfosters Storage aims to contribute to a supply chain that respects human dignity, safeguards workers, and upholds lawful and fair employment practices.