Gardeners Southall Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Southall has taken, and is continuing to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting business in a responsible and ethical manner and to respecting the rights and dignity of every person who contributes to our services and products.

Modern slavery is a crime and a violation of fundamental human rights. It can take many forms, including slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour, and human trafficking. Gardeners Southall recognises that every organisation has a responsibility to be alert to the risks, however small, in its own business and in the wider supply chain.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Southall maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, contractor, or organisation involved in such practices. Where credible concerns arise, we will act promptly to investigate, address the situation, and, where appropriate, terminate relationships that do not meet our standards.

All employees, managers, and contractors are expected to uphold this commitment. We make it clear that breaches of this policy by any member of staff may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or contract.

Our Operations and Supply Chain

Gardeners Southall provides gardening and related services, relying on a network of suppliers for plants, materials, equipment, and ancillary services. We recognise that risks of modern slavery can exist at different tiers of the supply chain, including in the sourcing of raw materials, manufacturing, and transport services.

We seek to work with suppliers that share our values and demonstrate a commitment to ethical labour practices. We expect our suppliers to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws.

Supplier Standards and Audits

To support our zero-tolerance stance, Gardeners Southall is progressively strengthening its supplier management processes. We expect suppliers to confirm that they do not use forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, and that they do not engage in human trafficking or exploitative practices.

Where appropriate, we conduct risk-based supplier reviews and audits. These may include requests for information on labour practices, worker rights, recruitment methods, and subcontracting arrangements. We reserve the right to carry out site visits or to require independent verification where we consider the risk to be higher due to geography, sector, or previous performance.

If a supplier fails to meet our standards or refuses to cooperate with reasonable audit requests, we will take proportionate action, which may include a corrective action plan, suspension of orders, or termination of the business relationship.

Training and Awareness

Gardeners Southall is committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among relevant staff. This includes providing guidance on recognising warning signs, understanding our policies, and knowing how to report concerns safely.

Managers involved in procurement, contracting, and supplier management are expected to be familiar with the principles of this statement and to apply them when sourcing products and services.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage the reporting of any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery or human trafficking in our operations or supply chain. Concerns can be raised internally to line managers or senior management. Reports may be made confidentially and will be taken seriously and handled sensitively.

No person who raises a genuine concern will suffer retaliation or adverse treatment as a result of speaking up. We will investigate reported concerns promptly, take appropriate action, and, where necessary, cooperate with law enforcement or relevant authorities.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Gardeners Southall recognises that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process. We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach, including refining our risk assessments, strengthening supplier engagement, and enhancing staff awareness.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by senior management to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with our operations and legal obligations. We may update the statement more frequently if there are significant changes to our business, supply chains, or relevant legislation.

By issuing this statement, Gardeners Southall reaffirms its commitment to ethical conduct, respect for human rights, and the elimination of modern slavery and human trafficking from its operations and supply chains.