Modern Slavery Statement for Cowley Storage

Cowley Storage is committed to operating with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitative working practices across our operations and supply chains. We recognise that slavery can take many forms, including debt bondage, deceptive recruitment, withholding of wages, and coercion. Our approach is guided by a zero-tolerance policy toward any activity that undermines the dignity and freedom of individuals.

Our Commitment

As a storage business, we rely on a range of suppliers and service partners to support our day-to-day activities. We understand that risks may exist in sectors such as construction, cleaning, transport, packaging, security, and outsourced services. To reduce these risks, Cowley Storage applies proportionate due diligence when selecting and reviewing suppliers. This includes assessing labour standards, employment practices, and the controls suppliers use to protect workers from exploitation. Where concerns arise, we expect immediate corrective action and may suspend or end the relationship if issues are not resolved.

Our internal policies are designed to ensure that every colleague understands their responsibility to identify and report any warning signs of abuse. We provide training to relevant staff so they can recognise indicators such as restricted movement, intimidation, confiscated documents, unfair pay deductions, or unusually controlled working conditions. In addition, our recruitment practices are designed to be fair and lawful, with checks in place to prevent the use of forced labour or unethical labour intermediaries. We also encourage a culture in which workers are treated with fairness, respect, and openness.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

Supplier assurance is central to our modern slavery controls. Cowley Storage carries out supplier audits and reviews based on risk, supplier type, and geography. Audits may include document checks, discussions with management, and confirmation of wage, identity, and right-to-work processes. We may request evidence of labour policies, training records, subcontractor oversight, and grievance procedures. Where a supplier operates in a higher-risk category, we apply enhanced scrutiny and may require a corrective action plan. This helps us maintain a resilient and ethically responsible supply chain.

Reporting channels are available to support early intervention and accountability. Any employee, contractor, or business partner who suspects modern slavery, unethical recruitment, or coercive behaviour is expected to raise the matter promptly through established internal reporting routes. Reports may be made confidentially, and concerns will be handled seriously, discreetly, and without retaliation. We stress that speaking up is essential to protecting vulnerable people and improving standards across the Cowley Storage supply chain. All reports are reviewed, documented, and escalated where necessary.

Governance and Accountability

Responsibility for implementing this statement sits with senior management, who review risk, approve key actions, and monitor progress. Managers are expected to ensure that policies are followed in practice and that concerns are investigated quickly. We also expect our suppliers to uphold the same principles. Where appropriate, we seek contractual assurances that prohibit slavery, human trafficking, and unlawful labour practices. By embedding these expectations into governance, we reinforce a clear message: modern slavery has no place in Cowley Storage or in the businesses that support us.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This statement will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, current, and aligned with our business activities and risk profile. The review will consider audit findings, reported concerns, training completion, supplier performance, and any changes in legislation or best practice. Where improvements are identified, we will update policies, strengthen controls, and extend our checks as needed. Continuous improvement is essential to maintaining a credible and proactive response to modern slavery risks.

Conclusion

Cowley Storage is committed to responsible business conduct and to protecting the rights and welfare of every person connected to our operations. Through a zero-tolerance policy, robust supplier audits, accessible reporting channels, and an annual review cycle, we aim to prevent exploitation and uphold ethical standards throughout our organisation. This statement reflects our ongoing determination to act with integrity, vigilance, and accountability in all that we do.