Modern Slavery Statement for Locksbottom Storage

Locksbottom 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, servitude, forced labour, and human trafficking in our operations and supply chain. We recognise that modern slavery can exist in many forms, and we take a zero-tolerance approach to any practice that exploits people or undermines their dignity.

Our commitment applies across all areas of the business, including staff recruitment, procurement, and contractor management. We expect everyone working with Locksbottom Storage to share our values and to act in line with applicable laws and ethical standards. We also aim to maintain a culture where concerns can be raised early, investigated fairly, and resolved promptly.

Locksbottom Storage modern slavery measures begin with clear governance. Senior management is responsible for overseeing compliance and ensuring that anti-slavery principles are embedded in decision-making. We review workforce practices to reduce risk in employment checks, pay, working hours, and the use of agency labour. Where there is any sign of coercion, deception, or abuse, we treat it as a serious matter requiring immediate action.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

Our zero-tolerance policy means we will not knowingly engage with any individual or organisation involved in modern slavery. This applies to direct employees, temporary workers, subcontractors, and suppliers. If a breach is identified, we will investigate thoroughly and may suspend or end the relationship depending on the severity and response. We expect all business partners to uphold the same standards and to comply with labour, health, and safety requirements.

We provide appropriate training so relevant staff can recognise warning signs such as restricted movement, withholding of documents, unusual payment arrangements, intimidation, or signs that workers are unable to speak freely. Training is refreshed as needed so that awareness remains practical and current. Our approach is preventive as well as corrective, helping us identify risk before harm occurs.

In procurement, Locksbottom Storage seeks suppliers that demonstrate ethical employment practices and transparent labour management. Before entering new arrangements, we carry out proportionate due diligence, which may include reviewing policies, requesting declarations, and assessing country or sector risk. This helps us build a supply chain that reflects our values and reduces the chance of hidden exploitation.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

Supplier audits are an important part of our assurance framework. Depending on risk, we may conduct desktop reviews, request evidence of worker rights protections, or undertake on-site assessments through internal teams or qualified third parties. Audits focus on recruitment methods, pay practices, working conditions, document retention, and the treatment of migrant or vulnerable workers. If issues are found, we require remedial action within a defined timeframe and track progress to completion.

Locksbottom Storage also monitors suppliers through ongoing engagement rather than relying only on initial checks. We may review contracts, update questionnaires, and re-evaluate suppliers when circumstances change. Where a supplier cannot demonstrate adequate controls, we consider alternative sourcing options. This helps ensure our standards remain consistent throughout the life of a contract.

We encourage open communication across all levels of the business and supply chain. Anyone who suspects modern slavery can use our internal reporting channels, which allow concerns to be raised confidentially and without fear of retaliation. Reports may be made to line management, senior leadership, or designated safeguarding personnel. We investigate concerns promptly, protect anonymity where possible, and take appropriate corrective steps in line with our policies.

Reporting, Review, and Improvement

Our reporting process supports a culture of accountability. We make it clear that retaliation against anyone who raises a genuine concern will not be tolerated. If an allegation involves a supplier or contractor, we will work with the relevant parties to secure evidence, protect workers, and determine whether continued engagement is appropriate. Serious concerns are escalated to senior management for decision-making.

We recognise that modern slavery risks can change over time due to geography, labour shortages, or shifts in the market. For that reason, this statement and the controls supporting it are reviewed annually. The annual review considers the effectiveness of training, due diligence, audit findings, incident reports, and any emerging risks. The review also informs updates to policy, process, and supplier oversight.

At Locksbottom Storage, we are committed to continuous improvement and to strengthening our safeguards year by year. Our aim is not only compliance, but responsible business practice that respects human rights at every stage. By maintaining a zero-tolerance policy, conducting supplier audits, providing clear reporting channels, and completing an annual review, we work to ensure our operations remain ethical, transparent, and resilient.