Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners North Sheen

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners North Sheen is taking to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting our business in a responsible and ethical manner and to respecting the rights and dignity of all individuals who work with or for us.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners North Sheen has a clear zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to our direct operations, our workers, subcontractors, and every level of our supply chain. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation involved in, or turning a blind eye to, practices that constitute modern slavery.

All managers, employees, and regular contractors are expected to support this commitment. Any breach of this policy by our staff may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or contract. Where necessary, we will also report concerns to relevant external authorities.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners North Sheen provides gardening and related services. Our supply chains include providers of tools, equipment, horticultural products, uniforms, and various support and professional services. We recognise that risks of modern slavery can arise in manufacturing, logistics, seasonal work, and outsourced services, and we remain alert to those risks irrespective of the size or location of the supplier.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to uphold human rights, comply with employment laws, and prohibit forced, bonded, or involuntary labour. Before we establish or renew a relationship with key suppliers, we seek to ensure they understand and agree with our standards relating to modern slavery and ethical conduct.

Where proportionate and risk-based, we carry out reviews and audits of suppliers. These may include requesting information on labour practices, verifying the use of legal employment contracts, checking age verification procedures, and assessing health and safety conditions. When risks are identified, we work with the supplier to address them within a reasonable timeframe, or we reconsider the relationship where adequate improvements are not made.

Training and Awareness

Gardeners North Sheen promotes awareness of modern slavery risks among relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management. We aim to ensure that our people can recognise potential indicators of exploitation, understand our zero-tolerance stance, and know how to escalate concerns appropriately.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

We encourage the reporting of any suspected case of modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our operations or supply chains. Employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders are urged to raise concerns with a manager or senior representative of Gardeners North Sheen as soon as possible.

Concerns will be treated seriously, handled with appropriate confidentiality, and investigated promptly. No one will suffer any detrimental treatment for raising a concern in good faith, even if it is not ultimately substantiated. Where investigations identify potential criminal activity or serious breaches, matters may be referred to the relevant authorities.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires continual vigilance and improvement. Gardeners North Sheen is committed to reviewing and, where necessary, enhancing our policies, procedures, and due diligence measures over time.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least once every year by senior management to assess its effectiveness and to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, and our business activities. Following each annual review, we will update this statement where appropriate to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and aligned with our values.

Approval of this Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the management of Gardeners North Sheen, who are responsible for ensuring that the commitments outlined are implemented and maintained throughout our business and supply chains.