Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Greenwich
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the approach of Gardeners Greenwich to preventing modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and labour exploitation in our operations and supply chains. As a business providing gardening and related services, we recognise our responsibility to uphold and promote fair and safe working conditions for all individuals who contribute to our services and products.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Gardeners Greenwich operates under a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly support, engage with, or do business with any individual or organisation involved in modern slavery or related abuses. This commitment applies to our direct employees, agency workers, contractors, suppliers, and any other third parties connected with our business activities.
We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all of our relationships and to implementing and enforcing systems and controls that prevent modern slavery from taking place within our own operations and within our supply chains.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Gardeners Greenwich provides gardening, landscaping, and grounds maintenance services. Our operations rely on a range of suppliers and subcontractors, including those providing plants, gardening materials, tools, equipment, uniforms, transportation, and occasional specialist labour. We recognise that some sectors and geographies may present higher risks of labour exploitation and we seek to assess and mitigate such risks wherever they may arise.
Risk Assessment and Supplier Due Diligence
We conduct risk-based due diligence on our suppliers and contractors to identify areas where the risk of modern slavery may be higher. Before entering into new supplier relationships, we seek confirmation that appropriate labour standards and employment practices are in place. Where we identify elevated risk, we will require additional assurances, documentation, or independent evidence of compliance with fair labour practices.
Suppliers are expected to comply with all relevant laws relating to employment, working hours, wages, health and safety, and the prohibition of forced or child labour. We expect them to cascade equivalent standards to their own supply chains.
Supplier Audits and Monitoring
To support our zero-tolerance approach, Gardeners Greenwich undertakes proportionate checks and audits of selected suppliers. These audits may include reviewing policies and procedures, examining employment records and working conditions, and seeking evidence of right to work and fair pay practices. Where in-person visits are appropriate, we may carry out site inspections to verify that working conditions are safe and that workers are treated with dignity and respect.
If a supplier is found to be in breach of our expectations or applicable law, we will require immediate corrective action. Where such breaches are serious or not promptly remedied, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the business relationship.
Training and Awareness
We aim to raise awareness of modern slavery risks among our management team and relevant staff. Training and guidance are provided so that those responsible for recruitment, procurement, and contract management can recognise indicators of modern slavery, understand our internal procedures, and know how to respond to any concerns.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Gardeners Greenwich encourages all employees, workers, and external partners to report any concerns or suspicions relating to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting lines to managers or designated senior staff, or via confidential whistleblowing channels made available within the business. Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly and fairly.
We do not tolerate any form of victimisation, retaliation, or disadvantage against anyone who raises a concern in good faith, whether or not it is ultimately substantiated.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that addressing the risks of modern slavery is an ongoing process. Gardeners Greenwich is committed to continually improving our policies, procedures, and checks to enhance the protection of workers in our operations and supply chains.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every year to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with current legislation and best practice. As part of the annual review, we consider any incidents, audit findings, stakeholder feedback, and changes in our business or supply chains. Where appropriate, we update our procedures, training, and contractual requirements to strengthen our approach.
This Statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Greenwich and reflects our continuing commitment to combat modern slavery and promote ethical labour practices in everything we do.
