Modern Slavery Statement for Heston Storage
Heston Storage is committed to operating with integrity, responsibility, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, child labour, and other forms of exploitation within our business and supply chain. We recognise that Heston Storage has a duty to identify and address risks wherever they may arise, and we are determined to uphold a workplace and supply network built on fairness, dignity, and lawful conduct.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
Heston Storage maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward modern slavery in all forms. We do not accept any practice that may result in coercion, abuse, unsafe working conditions, unlawful recruitment fees, or the withholding of personal documents. This applies equally to employees, contractors, agency workers, and business partners. We expect all parties associated with Heston Storage modern slavery controls to comply with applicable laws and to act in a manner consistent with ethical employment standards.
To support this policy, we include anti-slavery expectations in our internal procedures and supplier terms. Managers are responsible for recognising warning signs, escalating concerns, and taking immediate action if any issue is identified. Our approach is based on prevention, accountability, and continuous improvement rather than reactive compliance alone.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We recognise that the greatest risk of modern slavery often sits within supply chains, especially where labour is sourced through intermediaries. For that reason, Heston Storage uses risk-based supplier audits and due diligence checks to assess prospective and existing suppliers. These checks may include reviewing employment practices, right-to-work controls, recruitment methods, subcontracting arrangements, and geographic or sector-specific risk factors.
Suppliers identified as higher risk may be subject to enhanced review, document requests, and on-site or remote audits where appropriate. If concerns are found, we require prompt corrective action and may suspend or terminate relationships where necessary. We also encourage suppliers to maintain clear records, train their teams, and communicate their own anti-slavery expectations throughout their operations.
Training, Awareness, and Risk Management
We provide relevant staff with awareness training so they can recognise indicators of exploitation and understand how to respond. This includes signs such as inconsistent pay practices, restricted movement, excessive working hours, intimidation, or control of wages and identity documents. By strengthening awareness across the organisation, Heston Storage’s modern slavery statement becomes a practical tool for prevention, not merely a formal declaration.
We also review our procurement and operational processes to reduce risk in areas such as temporary labour, outsourced services, cleaning, transport, maintenance, and facilities support. Where labour is supplied by third parties, we expect robust recruitment safeguards and transparent employment arrangements. These measures help us identify vulnerabilities early and keep the Heston Storage supply chain aligned with ethical standards.
Reporting Channels and Speak-Up Culture
Heston Storage promotes a speaking-up culture so that concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation. Employees and contractors are encouraged to report any suspected wrongdoing, including potential modern slavery, unsafe labour practices, or unethical recruitment behaviour. Reports may be made through internal management channels, designated compliance routes, or other approved reporting mechanisms established within the organisation.
All concerns are treated seriously and handled with discretion. We investigate matters promptly, document findings, and take appropriate action based on the evidence available. Where needed, we may involve senior leadership, external advisers, or relevant authorities. Confidentiality is respected wherever possible, and no individual should suffer detriment for raising a genuine concern in good faith.
Our reporting approach is designed to ensure that suspected exploitation is identified early and addressed decisively. By combining clear policies with accessible reporting channels, Heston Storage strengthens trust across its workforce and reinforces its commitment to ethical business conduct.
Annual Review and Continuous Improvement
This modern slavery statement will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with legal and operational developments. The review will consider audit results, supplier performance, incident trends, training completion, and any changes in risk exposure. Where improvements are needed, Heston Storage will update its controls, refine its processes, and strengthen oversight across the business.
We understand that preventing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. Through annual review, supplier engagement, employee awareness, and firm enforcement of our zero-tolerance policy, Heston Storage aims to maintain a resilient, responsible, and ethical operating environment. Our commitment is clear: exploitation has no place in our organisation or in the partnerships that support it.