Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners East Sheen Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners East Sheen is taking to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and exploitation within our own operations and our supply chains. We are committed to conducting our business ethically and responsibly, and to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals who work with or for us.

Modern slavery is a serious crime and a grave abuse of human rights. It can occur in many forms, including forced labour, bonded labour, servitude, child labour and human trafficking. Gardeners East Sheen recognises that the horticultural and wider service sectors can be exposed to heightened risks, particularly where seasonal, migrant or subcontracted labour is involved. We therefore take active steps to identify, assess and reduce these risks.

Zero-Tolerance Commitment

Gardeners East Sheen has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with, support or benefit from any business, contractor or individual involved in such practices. Any breach or suspected breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in termination of contracts or working relationships, as well as reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our zero-tolerance approach is communicated to all employees, workers, subcontractors and suppliers as a core element of our values and our expectations of ethical conduct. Managers are responsible for reinforcing these standards and responding promptly to any concerns raised.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to uphold the same high standards that we set for ourselves. As part of our procurement and onboarding processes, suppliers are required to confirm that they comply with relevant labour laws, do not engage in modern slavery practices and implement suitable measures to protect workers from exploitation.

Gardeners East Sheen conducts risk-based checks and audits of suppliers, with particular focus on those involving higher-risk activities or complex labour arrangements. These audits may include requests for documentation relating to recruitment practices, wages, working hours, right-to-work checks and use of subcontracted labour. Where appropriate, site visits may be carried out to observe working conditions and speak with workers.

If concerns are identified through due diligence or audits, we will work with the supplier to develop an improvement plan with clear actions and timeframes. Where suppliers fail to demonstrate adequate progress or refuse to cooperate, we reserve the right to suspend or end the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Protection for Whistleblowers

Gardeners East Sheen encourages all employees, workers, suppliers and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or related exploitation in our business or supply chains. Concerns can be raised verbally or in writing to line managers or senior management, or through any internal reporting route that may be in place from time to time.

We are committed to ensuring that individuals who raise concerns in good faith are not subjected to retaliation or detrimental treatment. Reports will be treated sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. All reports will be reviewed promptly and, where appropriate, investigated thoroughly. If modern slavery is identified or strongly suspected, we will take immediate action to safeguard affected individuals and will consider notifying law enforcement or other relevant bodies.

Training, Awareness and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners East Sheen provides guidance and awareness-raising for relevant staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, site management and procurement. This includes information on recognising signs of modern slavery, understanding our policies, and following appropriate reporting procedures.

We recognise that tackling modern slavery requires ongoing vigilance and improvement. We seek to learn from our own experience, industry developments and best practice, and we aim to strengthen our processes over time.

Annual Review and Governance

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by Gardeners East Sheen’s management to ensure it remains accurate, effective and proportionate to the risks we face. As part of the annual review, we consider any incidents or concerns raised, audit findings, changes in our operations or supply chains, and developments in legislation or guidance.

Following each review, we will update our policies, procedures and training as necessary, and will continue to communicate our expectations clearly to employees, workers and suppliers. By maintaining this regular oversight, Gardeners East Sheen aims to reduce the risk of modern slavery and to promote fair, safe and respectful working conditions throughout our business and supply chains.