Gardeners Gunnersbury Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Gunnersbury has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers engaged by Gardeners Gunnersbury. We recognise that modern slavery is a severe violation of human rights and are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Gunnersbury maintains a clear zero-tolerance stance towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, servitude, and human trafficking. Any form of exploitation, whether direct or indirect, is fundamentally incompatible with our values and standards. We expect the same uncompromising approach from everyone we work with, including suppliers, subcontractors, consultants, and other business partners.

Our zero-tolerance policy is embedded in our internal policies, codes of conduct, and supplier standards. It requires that work is always voluntary, that workers are free to leave employment with reasonable notice, and that they are treated with dignity and respect. Any breach or suspected breach of this policy may result in termination of contracts or other appropriate corrective action.

Risk Management and Supplier Due Diligence

We recognise that the primary risk of modern slavery within our business arises through our supply chains, including the sourcing of materials, equipment, and contracted services. To manage these risks, we conduct proportionate due diligence on new and existing suppliers, with particular focus on higher-risk categories and geographies.

Our due diligence may include assessing supplier policies on labour standards, reviewing their working conditions information, and evaluating their history of ethical compliance. Where concerns are identified, we engage with suppliers to seek clarification, corrective actions, or alternative sourcing arrangements where necessary.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

Gardeners Gunnersbury undertakes supplier audits and monitoring activities to verify compliance with our zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery. These audits may be conducted on a scheduled or ad hoc basis and can include on-site visits, document reviews, and worker interviews where appropriate and safe to do so.

We prioritise audits of suppliers operating in sectors or regions where the risk of labour exploitation is known to be higher. Findings from audits are recorded, and suppliers are required to implement corrective action plans within agreed timeframes. Continued non-compliance or failure to address identified issues may result in the suspension or termination of our relationship with that supplier.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone working for or with Gardeners Gunnersbury to speak up if they have concerns about modern slavery or unethical practices within our operations or supply chains. Workers, contractors, and other stakeholders can raise concerns through our internal reporting channels or confidential whistleblowing procedures.

Reports can be made to line managers, senior management, or via established confidential channels set out in our internal policies. All reports are taken seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. No one who raises a concern in good faith will suffer any form of retaliation, and we are committed to protecting the confidentiality and safety of individuals reporting concerns.

Training and Awareness

We provide training and guidance to relevant employees to ensure they understand the risks of modern slavery and their role in identifying and preventing it. This includes training for individuals involved in procurement, contract management, site supervision, and recruitment. Our aim is to build awareness of warning signs and ensure that staff know how to escalate any concerns appropriately.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Gardeners Gunnersbury recognises that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We are committed to continuous improvement in our policies, procedures, and practices. Each year, we review the effectiveness of our measures, taking into account audit outcomes, reported concerns, legal developments, industry guidance, and stakeholder feedback.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed and updated annually by our leadership team to ensure it remains relevant, robust, and aligned with best practice. Where necessary, we enhance our due diligence, audit, training, and reporting mechanisms to strengthen our ability to prevent, detect, and address modern slavery in all aspects of our operations and supply chains.

This statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Gunnersbury, who are responsible for its implementation and oversight.