Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Brent Cross
Gardeners Brent Cross is committed to conducting every part of its operations with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent forced labour, human trafficking, child labour, and any form of exploitation within our business and supply chain. Our zero-tolerance policy applies to all staff, contractors, and suppliers, and it reflects the standards we expect in every working relationship.
We recognise that landscaping, grounds maintenance, and horticultural services can involve complex labour arrangements and subcontracting. For that reason, Gardeners Brent Cross maintains clear governance procedures to identify, assess, and address risks. We expect all workers to be treated fairly, to work voluntarily, and to receive lawful pay, safe conditions, and dignity at work. Any breach of these principles is treated as a serious matter.
Our approach begins with due diligence at the point of engagement and continues throughout the relationship. We assess the labour practices of suppliers, verify compliance with legal requirements, and seek assurances that recruitment is ethical and transparent. Where concerns arise, we investigate promptly and take corrective action, which may include suspension or termination of the relationship if necessary.
Supplier management is central to this statement. Brent Cross gardeners and associated procurement teams conduct supplier audits on a risk-based schedule, focusing on labour arrangements, right-to-work checks, wage practices, and subcontractor oversight. Audits may include document reviews, on-site inspections, and interviews to ensure that workers are not subject to coercion, debt bondage, or unsafe conditions.
We also require suppliers to confirm that they share our commitment to ethical conduct. Contracts include expectations around compliance with anti-slavery laws, worker protection, and cooperation with audits. Gardeners in Brent Cross are instructed to report any sign of concern immediately, especially where there are indicators such as withheld passports, excessive recruitment fees, restricted movement, or intimidation.
Training supports awareness across the organisation. Managers and team leaders receive guidance on recognising modern slavery indicators, understanding reporting responsibilities, and responding appropriately if a concern is raised. This helps ensure that our operations remain vigilant and that our standards are upheld consistently across projects, teams, and seasonal labour arrangements.
We provide multiple reporting channels so concerns can be raised safely and in confidence. Employees, contractors, and suppliers may report suspected misconduct through internal management routes, safeguarding procedures, or formal grievance processes. All reports are handled sensitively, and concerns are assessed without delay. No individual will be penalised for raising a genuine concern in good faith.
Where a report suggests possible exploitation, we act swiftly to protect any affected person and to preserve evidence. We work with relevant stakeholders as required, while ensuring that the response remains focused on the welfare of workers and the integrity of the investigation. The aim is not only to address immediate issues, but also to strengthen preventive controls across the business.
As part of our wider compliance framework, Gardeners Brent Cross periodically reviews recruitment practices, labour providers, and subcontracted services. These checks help confirm that no hidden risks have entered the supply chain and that ethical standards are being maintained. The use of unregulated intermediaries is discouraged, and any high-risk arrangement is subject to heightened scrutiny.
This statement is reviewed on an annual basis to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with current legislation and operational practice. The review considers audit outcomes, reported concerns, supplier performance, training completion, and any changes in risk profile. Findings are used to improve controls and update procedures where needed.
Senior leadership is responsible for overseeing progress and ensuring that anti-slavery measures are embedded into everyday operations. We are committed to continuous improvement and to maintaining a culture in which ethical conduct is expected at every level. Gardeners Brent Cross will continue to strengthen safeguarding measures and promote responsible working practices throughout its activities.
By setting clear standards, conducting supplier audits, providing reliable reporting channels, and reviewing performance annually, we aim to reduce the risk of modern slavery in all forms. This statement reflects our ongoing commitment to lawful, ethical, and respectful working practices across the business and its supply chain.