Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Colney Hatch to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights and we are committed to conducting our business ethically, transparently and with integrity.

Modern slavery includes forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, child labour and all forms of exploitation where an individual cannot refuse or leave due to threats, violence, deception or abuse of power. We are committed to continually improving our practices to identify, mitigate and address any risk of modern slavery linked to our business activities.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Colney Hatch operates a clear zero-tolerance policy to modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, contractor or supplier who is involved in, or who turns a blind eye to, any form of modern slavery.

All employees, managers and business partners are expected to observe and uphold this policy. Any breach is treated as a serious matter and may result in disciplinary action, termination of employment or termination of contracts with third parties. Our leadership team is responsible for ensuring that this commitment is understood and implemented across the organisation.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chain includes providers of gardening supplies, equipment, uniforms, transportation and related services. We expect all our suppliers to share our commitment to ethical labour practices and to comply with all applicable labour, employment and human rights laws.

We communicate our expectations to suppliers through our procurement processes and contractual terms, which require them to prohibit forced labour, child labour, human trafficking, discrimination and abusive working conditions. We reserve the right to conduct audits, assessments or site visits to verify compliance with these standards.

Where we identify a risk or concern, we will work with the supplier to address the issue through corrective action plans within reasonable time frames. If a supplier fails to take appropriate corrective action or is found to be complicit in modern slavery, we will consider suspending or ending the relationship.

Risk Assessment and Due Diligence

We undertake ongoing risk assessment to identify areas of our operations and supply chains that may be more exposed to modern slavery risks. Factors considered include the type of work being carried out, geographic location, use of temporary or migrant labour and the nature of subcontracting arrangements.

Our due diligence processes for new and existing suppliers may include gathering information on labour practices, reviewing certifications or codes of conduct, and assessing the supplier's own policies and procedures on modern slavery and human rights.

Reporting Concerns and Speak-Up Channels

Gardeners Colney Hatch encourages all employees, workers, contractors and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery connected to our business or supply chains. No person raising a concern in good faith will suffer retaliation or adverse treatment as a result of speaking up.

Concerns can be raised through internal management channels, confidential reporting to senior leadership or through established grievance and complaint procedures. All reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively and investigated promptly. Where appropriate, we will cooperate with law enforcement and relevant authorities.

Training, Awareness and Responsibilities

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery among our employees, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment and supplier management. Training and guidance are provided to help staff recognise warning signs and understand how to respond to potential risks or incidents.

Responsibility for overseeing our anti-slavery efforts rests with senior management, who ensure that our policies are up to date and effectively implemented. Managers are required to promote a culture of openness and accountability so that concerns can be raised and addressed without fear.

Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Colney Hatch will review this Modern Slavery Statement and our related policies and procedures at least annually. The review will consider changes in legislation, evolving best practice, emerging risks within our industry and feedback from stakeholders.

We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach to preventing modern slavery, including refining our risk assessments, strengthening supplier engagement and enhancing training and communication. This statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Colney Hatch and will be updated as necessary to reflect our ongoing efforts to protect human rights and promote ethical labour standards throughout our operations and supply chains.