Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Hither Green Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Hither Green to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold the highest ethical standards and to ensure that the people who contribute to our gardening and landscaping services are treated with dignity and respect.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Hither Green has a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, servitude, and child labour. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business dealings and relationships. We expect the same high standards from all those with whom we work, including employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers of goods and services.

Any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery within our business or supply chain will be treated as a serious violation of our policies and may result in the termination of contracts, reporting to relevant authorities, and other appropriate actions.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Gardeners Hither Green operates in the gardening and landscaping sector, providing services to residential and commercial clients. Our supply chain includes providers of plants, soil, equipment, tools, uniforms, transport, and ancillary services. We recognise that certain areas of the horticultural and seasonal labour markets can be at higher risk of exploitation, and we are committed to identifying and addressing those risks.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

We require our suppliers and contractors to operate in accordance with all applicable laws, including those relating to employment, health and safety, and human rights. We communicate our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery to our existing and potential suppliers and expect them to maintain effective controls to prevent exploitation in their own operations and supply chains.

As part of our due diligence, we assess the risk profile of our suppliers based on sector, geography, and the nature of goods or services provided. Where we identify higher risk, we may request additional information on labour practices, recruitment processes, and worker protections.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

Gardeners Hither Green is committed to ongoing monitoring of suppliers to ensure alignment with our ethical standards. We reserve the right to conduct or commission audits of suppliers where there is a perceived or potential risk of modern slavery. These audits may include review of employment records, worker interviews where appropriate, and inspection of facilities.

If non-compliance or concerning practices are identified, we will work with suppliers to agree corrective action plans and timeframes. Persistent failure to address issues, or evidence of serious exploitation, may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Training, Awareness, and Reporting Channels

We aim to raise awareness of modern slavery among our staff, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and site management. Training and internal guidance help our team to recognise indicators of exploitation, understand reporting routes, and respond appropriately to concerns.

Gardeners Hither Green encourages all employees, contractors, and suppliers to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery without fear of retaliation. Concerns can be raised through line management, senior management, or established internal reporting procedures. Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and, where appropriate, investigated promptly and impartially.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process and that our practices must evolve as risks and best practice develop. Gardeners Hither Green is committed to continuous improvement in our approach, including reviewing our supplier requirements, risk assessments, and training materials on a regular basis.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least once every twelve months by senior management to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with applicable legislation and guidance. Any significant changes to our business, supply chain, or risk profile may trigger an earlier review.

This statement has been approved by the management of Gardeners Hither Green and represents our current position on the prevention of modern slavery and human trafficking within our business and supply chains.