Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement for Gardeners Gants Hill

Gardeners Gants Hill is committed to conducting its business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, agency staff, contractors, and suppliers associated with Gardeners Gants Hill.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

We operate a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, servitude, and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, business, or organisation that is involved in or condones such practices. Where any concerns arise, we will act promptly, including suspending or terminating relationships where appropriate.

Modern slavery is a serious violation of fundamental human rights. We recognise our responsibility to identify, prevent, and address any actual or potential risks within our operations. Our leadership team is responsible for ensuring that this commitment is embedded in our culture, policies, and daily decision-making.

Risk Assessment and Due Diligence

We regularly consider the nature of the services we provide and the sectors and locations in which our suppliers operate. While our business is primarily local and service-based, we acknowledge that risks of modern slavery can exist at any stage of a supply chain, including the sourcing of gardening materials, tools, uniforms, and associated services.

Before engaging new suppliers, we conduct due diligence assessments designed to identify ethical, legal, and labour-related risks. This includes requesting information on their employment practices, workforce policies, and compliance with labour laws. Existing suppliers may be asked to reconfirm their commitments periodically, ensuring our standards are consistently upheld.

Supplier Standards and Audits

Our expectation is that all suppliers and contractors to Gardeners Gants Hill adhere to labour standards that are at least in line with applicable laws and our own ethical principles. We require suppliers to:

Ensure employment is freely chosen and that workers can leave work and employment relationships without penalty, subject to legal notice periods.

Prohibit child labour and any exploitation of vulnerable individuals.

Provide fair wages, reasonable working hours, and safe working conditions.

Respect the rights of workers to raise concerns without fear of retaliation.

We may undertake audits or reviews of suppliers, either directly or through independent third parties. These audits may include reviewing documentation, policies, and, where appropriate, visiting sites to verify working conditions. If a supplier fails to meet our standards or to implement corrective actions within an agreed timeframe, we will review the viability of continuing the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Speak-Up Channels

Gardeners Gants Hill encourages a culture where concerns about modern slavery, unsafe conditions, or unethical behaviour can be raised openly and without fear. Employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery in our business or supply chains.

Reports can be made to line managers, senior management, or designated internal contacts responsible for overseeing ethical and compliance matters. Concerns may be raised confidentially, and all reports will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to improving awareness of modern slavery across Gardeners Gants Hill. Relevant staff receive guidance on identifying signs of exploitation, understanding risk factors in supply chains, and knowing how to escalate concerns. As our business evolves, we will refine our training and communication to ensure it remains relevant and effective.

Monitoring, Accountability and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing this Modern Slavery Statement, and for ensuring compliance with it, sits with the management of Gardeners Gants Hill. They are accountable for monitoring the effectiveness of our measures and ensuring that corrective or preventive actions are taken where needed.

This statement is reviewed at least once every year, or more frequently if there are significant changes to our operations, supplier base, or relevant legislation. During each review, we assess the effectiveness of our risk assessments, supplier audits, reporting channels, and staff awareness initiatives. We then update our approach to strengthen controls, address any gaps, and drive continuous improvement.

By maintaining a clear zero-tolerance policy, strengthening supplier oversight, enabling effective reporting channels, and reviewing our practices annually, Gardeners Gants Hill is committed to doing all it reasonably can to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within its business and supply chains.