Gardeners Stockwell Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions taken by Gardeners Stockwell to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights. Our organisation is committed to conducting business ethically, transparently, and with integrity in all our relationships, and we expect the same high standards from all those with whom we work.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Gardeners Stockwell has a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. We are committed to acting professionally and fairly in all our business dealings and relationships and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery is not taking place in our own business or any of our supply chains.
All employees, contractors, and suppliers are required to comply with this stance. Any indication of involvement in modern slavery is treated as a serious breach of our standards and may result in termination of contracts or other appropriate action.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Gardeners Stockwell operates within the gardening, landscaping, and related services sector. Our supply chains include suppliers of tools, equipment, plants, materials, uniforms, and professional services. We recognise that certain parts of these supply chains may carry a higher risk of labour exploitation, particularly where manufacturing, agriculture, or seasonal labour is involved.
We work to identify and understand these risks and to take proportionate steps to address them. This includes applying our expectations consistently to both direct suppliers and, as far as practicable, to their own subcontractors.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers to uphold the same values and standards as Gardeners Stockwell. Our supplier selection and onboarding processes consider ethical conduct and labour practices alongside quality, price, and reliability. We reserve the right to conduct audits or assessments of suppliers where we consider the risk of modern slavery to be elevated.
Supplier audits may include the review of employment records, working conditions, and recruitment practices, as well as discussions with management and, where appropriate, workers. Where non-compliance is identified, we will work with suppliers to implement corrective action plans within agreed timeframes. Failure to rectify serious or repeated issues may lead to suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels
Gardeners Stockwell encourages open communication and reporting of any concerns related to modern slavery, whether within our own operations or in our supply chains. Employees, workers, and external parties are encouraged to raise concerns without fear of retaliation.
Concerns can be reported to line managers, senior management, or through established internal reporting mechanisms. All reports will be taken seriously, treated confidentially as far as practicable, and investigated promptly and impartially. Where appropriate, we will cooperate with relevant authorities and take immediate steps to safeguard any individuals believed to be at risk.
Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with senior management, who ensure that appropriate policies, procedures, and resources are in place. Managers are responsible for promoting awareness of modern slavery risks in their teams and in dealings with suppliers.
Where relevant to their roles, employees receive information and guidance on identifying signs of modern slavery, understanding our reporting channels, and following our procedures. We expect our suppliers to similarly raise awareness within their own organisations and to cascade these standards through their supply chains.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Gardeners Stockwell is committed to continually improving our efforts to combat modern slavery. We monitor the effectiveness of our controls and seek opportunities to strengthen our approach as laws, best practices, and our business operations evolve.
This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually by senior management to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with our values. The review will consider any incidents reported, findings from supplier audits, feedback from stakeholders, and developments in legislation or industry guidance. Updated versions of this statement will be made available to employees, suppliers, and other interested parties.
By adhering to this statement and our zero-tolerance policy, Gardeners Stockwell aims to play a responsible role in eradicating modern slavery and promoting fair, safe, and dignified work for all individuals connected to our business and supply chains.
