Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Barkingside

Gardeners Barkingside is committed to conducting its business with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out our approach to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, workers, agency staff, contractors, and suppliers engaged by Gardeners Barkingside.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, and exploitation. Modern slavery is a crime and a fundamental violation of human rights. Gardeners Barkingside will not knowingly engage with any individual or organisation involved in such practices, and we are committed to acting ethically and responsibly in all our business relationships.

All those working for or on behalf of Gardeners Barkingside are expected to uphold this commitment. We will take immediate and decisive action if any concerns or evidence of modern slavery are identified, including reviewing contracts, suspending relationships, or terminating agreements where appropriate.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Standards

Our supply chains include the procurement of gardening equipment, tools, materials, plants, protective clothing, and ancillary services. We recognise that risks may arise at different stages of the supply chain, particularly where sourcing extends beyond our immediate local area.

We are committed to working with suppliers who share our values. We expect suppliers to comply with all relevant labour, employment, and human rights laws and to ensure that slavery, forced labour, and human trafficking have no place in their operations. We communicate our expectations clearly and make it known that failure to meet these standards may result in the termination of business relationships.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

Gardeners Barkingside is developing and implementing proportionate due diligence procedures to identify, assess, and mitigate the risk of modern slavery in our supply chains. This includes conducting risk-based supplier audits and checks to verify that suppliers operate in line with our ethical standards.

Where appropriate, we will:

Carry out assessments of new suppliers before engagement to confirm their compliance with labour and human rights standards.

Review existing suppliers on a periodic basis, focusing on higher-risk categories such as manual labour and overseas sourcing.

Request information about suppliers own policies, workforce practices, and monitoring processes.

If a supplier is found to present a risk or to be in breach of our requirements, we will work with them to address the issue within a reasonable timeframe. If this is not possible or if serious breaches occur, we will consider suspending or ending the relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Barkingside encourages a culture of openness where concerns can be raised without fear of reprisal. All employees, workers, contractors, and suppliers are expected to report any suspicion or knowledge of modern slavery connected to our business or supply chains.

Reports can be made to a manager or an appropriate senior representative within Gardeners Barkingside. Concerns will be treated seriously and handled sensitively, with information shared only on a need-to-know basis. We will investigate all credible reports promptly and take appropriate action, which may include notifying relevant authorities and reviewing our commercial relationships.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery among our staff. Relevant employees are given guidance on recognising the signs of exploitation, understanding risk factors in supply chains, and knowing how to report concerns. As our business grows, we will continue to develop and improve our training and communication on this issue.

Monitoring, Accountability, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing this Modern Slavery Statement and its implementation rests with the senior management of Gardeners Barkingside. We monitor the effectiveness of our measures through supplier reviews, internal reporting, and the outcome of any investigations or audits.

This statement will be reviewed at least once every year and updated where necessary to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, or the nature of our operations and supply chains. Any significant changes in our approach will be communicated to employees and, where appropriate, to suppliers and other stakeholders.

This Modern Slavery Statement reflects the commitment of Gardeners Barkingside to maintain ethical, fair, and respectful working practices throughout our business and to contribute actively to the eradication of modern slavery and human trafficking.