Modern Slavery Statement for Whetstone Storage

Whetstone 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 help prevent slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, and child labour within our operations and supply chain. We recognise that modern slavery can occur in many forms, and we maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward any practice that exploits people or denies them their basic freedoms.

Our commitment applies across all areas of the business, including procurement, facilities management, logistics, and the selection of contractors and service providers. We expect every person working on behalf of Whetstone Storage to uphold ethical standards and act with honesty, vigilance, and accountability. Our approach is designed to identify risks early, respond responsibly, and promote a culture where exploitation cannot be ignored.

We understand that storage and related support services may involve multiple suppliers and subcontractors. For that reason, we apply due diligence to new and existing relationships, with particular attention to labour practices, recruitment methods, and working conditions. This includes asking suppliers to confirm compliance with relevant laws and to demonstrate that they share our commitment to preventing modern slavery.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Modern slavery has no place in Whetstone Storage’s business model or values. Any confirmed involvement in slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, or deceptive recruitment may result in immediate action, including termination of contracts or removal from approved supplier lists. We expect all employees and business partners to remain alert to warning signs such as withheld identity documents, restricted movement, unpaid overtime, or unsafe working arrangements.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

We carry out supplier audits proportionate to the nature and risk profile of the relationship. These audits may include document reviews, labour-practice checks, and assessments of recruitment processes, workplace conditions, and subcontracting arrangements. Where risks are identified, we require corrective action plans and monitor progress closely. If a supplier fails to address concerns satisfactorily, we will reconsider the relationship.

Our procurement decisions are informed by risk-based screening, and we pay particular attention to sectors and locations where vulnerability to exploitation may be higher. We also seek assurance that suppliers use lawful employment practices and do not charge workers fees that could create dependency or coercion. This disciplined process helps Whetstone Storage strengthen oversight throughout its operational network.

Reporting Channels and Investigation

We encourage anyone connected with Whetstone Storage to report concerns about possible modern slavery without delay. Reports may be made through internal management routes, compliance escalation channels, or designated safeguarding procedures. All concerns are treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled with appropriate confidentiality. No one who raises a concern in good faith should suffer retaliation, disadvantage, or intimidation.

If an allegation is substantiated, we will take decisive action in line with our policies and legal obligations. This may include safeguarding affected individuals, notifying relevant authorities where appropriate, and reviewing the associated supplier relationship. We also use lessons learned from investigations to improve our controls, training, and risk awareness across the organisation.

Our employees receive proportionate awareness training to help them identify indicators of exploitation and understand how to respond. Managers involved in hiring, procurement, and supplier oversight are expected to apply extra scrutiny when evaluating labour risks. By reinforcing these responsibilities, Whetstone Storage aims to ensure that ethical conduct remains embedded in everyday decision-making.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This statement and the supporting controls are reviewed annually to ensure they remain effective, relevant, and aligned with legal expectations and business developments. The review considers audit findings, any reported concerns, supplier performance, training coverage, and changes in risk exposure. Where needed, we update procedures, strengthen monitoring, and refine supplier requirements to improve protection against modern slavery.

Continuous improvement is central to our approach. We recognise that preventing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility rather than a one-time exercise. By maintaining robust governance, conducting supplier audits, encouraging safe reporting, and revisiting our controls each year, Whetstone Storage continues to uphold a strong and practical commitment to human rights.

Whetstone Storage will continue to operate with transparency, diligence, and respect for the dignity of every worker connected to our business. We are dedicated to ensuring that our modern slavery statement reflects meaningful action, not simply principle, and that our practices support ethical, lawful, and responsible business conduct at every level.