Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Brent Cross

Gardeners Brent Cross is committed to conducting all aspects of its operations in an ethical, transparent, and responsible manner. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour in our business and supply chains. It applies to all employees, workers, contractors, and suppliers associated with Gardeners Brent Cross.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. Any form of coercion, exploitation, or abuse of vulnerable individuals is strictly prohibited. We expect every person working with or for Gardeners Brent Cross to uphold this commitment and to act with integrity at all times.

Compliance with our zero-tolerance policy is a condition of doing business with us. We will not knowingly work with any organisation that fails to demonstrate a genuine commitment to preventing modern slavery or that is found to be engaging in exploitative practices.

Governance and Responsibilities

The management team at Gardeners Brent Cross is responsible for overseeing the implementation of this statement and ensuring that appropriate controls are in place. Managers are required to remain vigilant for any indications of modern slavery risks and to escalate concerns promptly through the appropriate reporting channels.

All employees are expected to familiarise themselves with this statement, complete relevant training when provided, and conduct themselves in a manner that supports our ethical standards. Failure to comply with our modern slavery requirements may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment or contract.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chains include providers of gardening equipment, plants and materials, uniforms, site maintenance services, and other business support services. We seek to work only with reputable suppliers who share our commitment to fair and lawful employment practices.

We require suppliers to confirm that they comply with applicable labour laws and do not use forced, bonded, or involuntary labour. Where appropriate, we request information on their own supply chains and due diligence processes to ensure that similar standards are maintained throughout the chain.

Gardeners Brent Cross conducts risk-based supplier audits and reviews. These may include site visits, document checks, and discussions with supplier representatives regarding their policies, training, and monitoring processes. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to meet our expectations, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage all employees, contractors, and suppliers to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our operations. Concerns may relate to working conditions, recruitment practices, excessive working hours, retention of identity documents, or any other indicators of exploitation.

Reports can be made through internal management channels or via our established whistleblowing procedures. Individuals are encouraged to raise concerns as early as possible, even if they are unsure whether modern slavery is taking place. All reports will be treated seriously and, where possible and lawful, confidentially.

We do not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against anyone who makes a report in good faith or who assists in an investigation. Retaliation is itself considered a serious disciplinary matter.

Training and Awareness

Gardeners Brent Cross is committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff. We provide information and, where appropriate, targeted training to help employees recognise the signs of exploitation and understand how to respond to concerns.

Training emphasises our zero-tolerance policy, the importance of ethical supply chain management, and the use of our reporting channels. We periodically review our training materials to ensure they remain relevant and reflect emerging risks and best practices.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. Gardeners Brent Cross is committed to continuous improvement in our approach, including refining our risk assessments, strengthening supplier engagement, and updating our internal procedures.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually by the management team. The review considers changes in our business activities, feedback from stakeholders, audit outcomes, and relevant legal or regulatory developments. Where necessary, we will update our policies, training, and controls to enhance the effectiveness of our response.

By maintaining strong ethical standards, robust supplier oversight, accessible reporting channels, and a firm zero-tolerance stance, Gardeners Brent Cross aims to play its part in preventing modern slavery and protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals involved in our business and supply chains.