Modern Slavery Statement for Downe Storage

Downe Storage is committed to conducting business with integrity, dignity, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that storage services, logistics support, procurement, and facility management may involve varied suppliers and contractors, so vigilance is essential. Our zero-tolerance policy applies across the business and requires every colleague, supplier, and partner to act lawfully and ethically.

Our Approach

We expect all personnel to uphold the highest standards of conduct. Any form of slavery or servitude is strictly prohibited, and any breach of this principle may result in disciplinary action, contract termination, or referral to the relevant authorities where appropriate. Downe Storage promotes a culture of awareness, accountability, and ethical decision-making. We provide internal guidance so that staff can identify warning signs such as restricted movement, withheld wages, unsafe accommodation, or signs of coercion. This approach supports our commitment to responsible business practice and the protection of vulnerable people.

Our procurement controls are designed to reduce risk before a supplier is engaged and throughout the relationship. We assess suppliers using a risk-based process that considers geography, sector, labour practices, and the nature of goods or services provided. Higher-risk suppliers may be required to complete declarations, provide evidence of labour standards, and accept additional contract clauses addressing modern slavery compliance. Supplier audits are carried out periodically and may include document checks, site visits, worker interview protocols where suitable, and follow-up action plans when concerns are identified.

Supply Chain Due Diligence

We work to ensure that our purchasing decisions do not contribute to exploitation. Where we identify any risk, we seek corrective action and, where necessary, suspend or end the relationship if meaningful improvement is not possible. Downe Storage expects suppliers to cascade similar standards through their own supply chains. This extends our commitment beyond first-tier arrangements and helps strengthen oversight across the wider network. We also review labour agency arrangements, subcontracting practices, and the use of temporary workers to make sure proper protections remain in place.

Reporting channels are available to encourage prompt disclosure of concerns. Employees, contractors, and suppliers may raise issues involving suspected modern slavery, unsafe practices, or unethical conduct through internal reporting routes. Reports may be made confidentially and will be handled seriously, sensitively, and without retaliation. We encourage a speak-up culture so that concerns are reported early, investigated fairly, and resolved effectively. Protecting whistleblowers is an essential part of our anti-slavery commitment.

Training and awareness also play an important role in our response. Relevant staff receive information on recognising indicators of exploitation, understanding escalation procedures, and maintaining purchasing discipline. Managers are expected to monitor risk areas and reinforce compliance in day-to-day operations. In addition, we maintain records of risk assessments, supplier checks, audit findings, and remedial actions so that our controls remain transparent and measurable. These records help us identify trends and strengthen safeguards over time.

Our statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with current legislation and best practice. The review considers any incidents, audit outcomes, supply chain changes, and improvements needed to our controls. Where gaps are identified, we update policies, training, and supplier requirements accordingly. This annual review reinforces our long-term commitment to preventing modern slavery and improving our governance.

Downe Storage believes that responsible operations depend on constant attention to human rights and ethical sourcing. We will continue to strengthen our controls, collaborate with suppliers, and take decisive action whenever risk is identified. Through clear expectations, robust monitoring, and a steadfast zero-tolerance policy, we aim to ensure that Downe Storage’s anti-slavery measures remain practical, effective, and consistent with our values.