Modern Slavery Statement for Hernehill Storage

Hernehill Storage is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and with respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out our approach to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chain. We recognise that modern slavery can take many forms, including forced labour, servitude, debt bondage, and exploitative recruitment practices. As a storage provider, we acknowledge that risks may arise in procurement, facilities management, transport, cleaning, construction, and other contracted services. Our zero-tolerance position applies across the business and to every person acting on our behalf.

We expect all employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers to uphold the highest standards of conduct. Hernehill Storage is dedicated to embedding ethical behaviour throughout our storage operations and commercial relationships. This includes taking a proactive stance to identify, prevent, and address any indicators of exploitation. Our commitment is reinforced through policies, training, and ongoing oversight. We believe responsible business practice is essential to protecting vulnerable workers and maintaining trust with customers, partners, and the wider community.

Our modern slavery controls are designed to be proportionate to the nature of our business and the risks associated with our supply chain. We assess supplier relationships based on geography, sector, labour intensity, and the likelihood of subcontracting. Where higher-risk activities are identified, we apply enhanced scrutiny and require additional assurances. We also encourage openness so that concerns can be raised early and investigated promptly. By taking these steps, Hernehill Storage strengthens its ability to prevent abuse and uphold ethical standards.

Policies, Due Diligence, and Supplier Audits

Hernehill Storage maintains policies that support compliance with anti-slavery principles, including supplier expectations, procurement standards, and staff responsibilities. These documents are reviewed to ensure they remain effective and aligned with current best practice. Supplier audits are an important part of our due diligence programme. Depending on the level of risk, audits may include document checks, site visits, interviews, and verification of labour practices. If concerns arise, we require corrective action plans and monitor implementation closely.

We also seek contractual commitments from suppliers to prohibit modern slavery in their operations and supply chains. Where appropriate, suppliers must confirm that they share our standards regarding fair pay, lawful working hours, safe conditions, and freedom from coercion. Persistent non-compliance may lead to suspension or termination of the relationship. In this way, Hernehill Storage uses its purchasing influence to support responsible sourcing and reduce exposure to exploitation.

Training plays a key role in helping our teams recognise warning signs such as unusual recruitment fees, restriction of movement, withheld documents, inconsistent wage information, or signs of fear and control. By improving awareness, we enhance our ability to respond quickly and decisively. Preventing modern slavery is a shared responsibility, and everyone at Hernehill Storage is expected to contribute to a culture of vigilance, integrity, and respect.

Reporting Channels, Investigation, and Review

Speaking Up and Escalation

Hernehill Storage provides reporting channels that allow concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices to be raised without fear of retaliation. Reports may be made through internal management routes or formal compliance processes, and all concerns are treated seriously and confidentially. We encourage workers, suppliers, and business partners to speak up if they suspect any form of exploitation. Allegations are assessed promptly, investigated fairly, and escalated where necessary to protect individuals and support remediation.

When an issue is identified, we work to understand the facts, safeguard affected people, and determine the most appropriate corrective response. This may include supplier engagement, contract review, enhanced monitoring, or reporting to relevant authorities where required. Our approach aims not only to react to incidents but also to address root causes and prevent recurrence. We believe a robust reporting framework is essential to the effectiveness of any anti-slavery programme.

This statement reflects our ongoing commitment to ethical business and continuous improvement. It is reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant, effective, and aligned with our operational risk profile. As part of the review process, Hernehill Storage considers changes in legislation, business structure, procurement patterns, and supplier performance. The annual review helps us refine our actions, strengthen oversight, and maintain a clear modern slavery statement that demonstrates accountability and responsible leadership.