Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Gardeners Shoreditch in respect of the current financial year. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. Gardeners Shoreditch recognises its responsibility to uphold human rights and is committed to continuous improvement in this area.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Gardeners Shoreditch operates in the gardening, landscaping, and related services sector. Our supply chains include the sourcing of plants, gardening materials, tools, equipment, uniforms, and ancillary services. We work with a range of suppliers, contractors, and subcontractors both in the United Kingdom and internationally, and we understand that certain parts of these supply chains may be more exposed to modern slavery risks than others.
We are committed to identifying and addressing these risks by engaging with suppliers who share our values and by strengthening our internal processes, training, and oversight.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
Gardeners Shoreditch has a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. This applies to our own operations and to all parties that provide goods or services to us.
We expect our employees, agency staff, contractors, and suppliers to adhere to high standards of ethical conduct. Any indication that modern slavery may exist within our business or supply chains will be taken extremely seriously. Where appropriate, we will suspend, review, or terminate relationships with individuals or organisations that do not meet our standards or fail to take corrective steps when concerns are raised.
Supplier Standards and Audits
To support our zero-tolerance position, we are strengthening our supplier onboarding and due diligence processes. We seek to work with suppliers who can demonstrate a clear and active commitment to preventing modern slavery and protecting workers’ rights.
Our approach to supplier management includes the following measures. We conduct risk-based assessments of new and existing suppliers, focusing on geography, sector, and the nature of the goods or services supplied. We communicate our expectations regarding labour standards, working conditions, and ethical conduct, requiring suppliers to confirm compliance with applicable laws and our own standards. Where proportionate and feasible, we carry out supplier audits, which may include site visits, document reviews, and discussions with management and workers. Where audits or assessments identify concerns, we work with suppliers on corrective action plans and follow-up checks. If material issues are not addressed in a timely and satisfactory manner, we may end or restrict the relationship.
Training and Awareness
We are committed to ensuring that relevant employees understand the risks of modern slavery and how to respond to potential concerns. Training and guidance are provided to staff involved in procurement, contract management, and site operations, so they can identify warning signs and escalate issues appropriately.
We also promote awareness of modern slavery risks among our wider workforce, reinforcing our expectations for ethical behaviour and the importance of speaking up.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Gardeners Shoreditch encourages all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns about modern slavery, human trafficking, or unethical labour practices connected to our business or supply chains. Concerns may relate to working conditions, recruitment practices, the treatment of workers, or any other indicators of exploitation.
We provide internal reporting channels that enable individuals to raise concerns confidentially and without fear of retaliation. Reports are reviewed promptly and, where necessary, investigated thoroughly. Appropriate action is taken in response to substantiated concerns, which may include engaging with suppliers, supporting affected individuals, and reporting matters to relevant authorities when required.
Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior management of Gardeners Shoreditch. They are accountable for ensuring that appropriate policies, procedures, and controls are in place and that they are regularly reviewed.
We are committed to monitoring the effectiveness of our measures through the tracking of supplier assessments, audit outcomes, staff training, and reported concerns. Lessons learned from these activities are used to improve our processes and strengthen our controls.
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed and updated on an annual basis to reflect our evolving business, changes in legislation, and best practice guidance. By maintaining this ongoing review, Gardeners Shoreditch aims to continually enhance its efforts to prevent modern slavery and support the protection of human rights across our operations and supply chains.
