Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Gardeners Slade Green is committed to conducting all aspects of our business ethically, responsibly, and in full respect of human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, workers, contractors, agency staff, and suppliers associated with Gardeners Slade Green.

Modern slavery is a serious crime and a gross violation of fundamental human rights. It can take many forms, including forced labour, debt bondage, servitude, child labour, and human trafficking. Gardeners Slade Green recognises its responsibility to identify, prevent, and address any risk of modern slavery linked to our activities.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Slade Green operates a clear zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly work with any individual, organisation, or supplier involved in such practices. Our policy is embedded within our wider ethical conduct, recruitment, and procurement procedures.

All colleagues are expected to act with integrity and to support our commitment to fair treatment, lawful employment, and safe working conditions. Any breach of this policy by employees may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Any breach by suppliers or contractors may result in suspension or termination of our relationship with them.

Risk Assessment and Due Diligence

We assess the risk of modern slavery within our own operations and across our supply chains. This includes reviewing the nature of the services and goods we procure, the geographic locations from which they are sourced, and the employment practices of key suppliers. Where higher risk is identified, we apply enhanced scrutiny and monitoring.

Our due diligence processes aim to ensure that all parties providing goods or services to Gardeners Slade Green uphold equivalent standards of ethical conduct and respect for human rights. We expect transparency from our suppliers and engage with them to improve practices where needed.

Supplier Standards and Audits

Gardeners Slade Green requires suppliers and contractors to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. We communicate our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery and make clear that adherence to these standards is a condition of doing business with us.

We conduct supplier audits, which may be desk-based reviews or on-site visits, depending on the nature and risk profile of the supplier. These audits assess working conditions, recruitment practices, wage and hour records, and the presence of any indicators of forced or exploitative labour. Where non-compliance is identified, we expect prompt corrective action and will monitor progress closely. Persistent or serious failings may result in the ending of our relationship with the supplier.

Reporting Channels and Protection

Gardeners Slade Green encourages all employees, workers, and external stakeholders to report any concerns related to modern slavery or human trafficking. Concerns might include suspicious employment arrangements, unfair recruitment fees, retention of identity documents, or signs of coercion or exploitation.

Reports can be made through established internal reporting channels or directly to management. Individuals raising concerns in good faith will be supported and will not suffer any retaliation or disadvantage as a result of speaking up. We treat all reports seriously, investigate where appropriate, and take corrective action as needed.

Training and Awareness

We aim to build awareness of modern slavery risks among our workforce, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management. Training and guidance focus on recognising warning signs, understanding our policies, and knowing how to report concerns.

By equipping colleagues with this knowledge, we strengthen our ability to identify potential issues early and respond effectively.

Monitoring, Accountability, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery measures sits with senior management at Gardeners Slade Green. They are accountable for ensuring this statement is implemented and that our controls remain effective.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually to reflect any changes in legislation, our business operations, or identified risks. As part of this review, we assess the effectiveness of our policies, due diligence, and supplier audits, and we identify areas where further improvement is required. Updated versions of this statement will be approved at senior level and communicated within the business and to relevant external stakeholders.

Gardeners Slade Green remains firmly committed to continuous improvement in preventing modern slavery and human trafficking and to promoting safe, fair, and lawful working practices throughout our operations and supply chains.