Modern Slavery Commitment at Gardeners South Hackney

Gardeners South Hackney is firmly committed to conducting all aspects of our gardening and grounds maintenance services in a lawful, ethical and transparent manner. We recognise that modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and exploitation are grave violations of fundamental human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take, and will continue to take, to prevent modern slavery within our business operations and our supply chains.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

We operate a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This policy applies to everyone working for or on behalf of Gardeners South Hackney, including permanent and temporary employees, agency workers, contractors, consultants and suppliers. We will not knowingly enter into or maintain any relationship with individuals or organisations involved in modern slavery practices.

All staff are expected to act with integrity and to uphold our commitment to treating every person with dignity and respect. Any breach of our zero-tolerance policy may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment or contract, and may be reported to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our services rely on a range of suppliers, including those providing horticultural products, tools, equipment, uniforms and outsourced services. We expect all suppliers to comply with applicable labour, employment and human rights laws and to uphold standards that are consistent with our zero-tolerance approach.

As part of our supplier onboarding process, we assess potential partners for ethical and labour standards, including their own policies and procedures addressing modern slavery risks. We reserve the right to conduct audits, site visits or request documented evidence to confirm compliance with our expectations. These audits may include checks on working conditions, recruitment practices, wage records and the use of subcontractors.

Where concerns are identified, we will work with the supplier to put corrective actions in place within a specified timeframe. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to make necessary improvements, we will consider suspending or ending the commercial relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage all employees, workers, suppliers and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected with our business. No individual will suffer any retaliation or detrimental treatment for raising a concern in good faith.

Reports can be made to line managers, senior management or via internal incident reporting processes. All reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively and investigated promptly. Where appropriate, we will refer matters to relevant authorities and cooperate fully with any external investigations.

We expect our suppliers to implement their own confidential reporting mechanisms and to protect whistleblowers from victimisation. We also expect them to notify us promptly of any substantiated modern slavery incidents within their operations or supply chains that may affect our business relationship.

Training, Awareness and Responsibility

Responsibility for overseeing our response to modern slavery risks sits with senior management at Gardeners South Hackney. Managers are required to promote awareness of this Statement and ensure that the zero-tolerance policy is understood and applied within their teams.

We provide appropriate information and guidance to employees whose roles may expose them to higher modern slavery risks, such as those involved in procurement, supplier management and recruitment. This includes recognising potential indicators of exploitation, understanding how to escalate concerns and appreciating the importance of due diligence.

Monitoring, Due Diligence and Annual Review

We recognise that the risks of modern slavery can evolve over time. Gardeners South Hackney is committed to ongoing due diligence, risk assessment and monitoring of our operations and supply chains. This includes reviewing supplier performance, evaluating recruitment practices and staying informed about emerging risks within our sector.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective and aligned with best practice and legal requirements. The review considers any incidents raised, audits conducted, corrective actions taken and feedback from stakeholders. Where necessary, we update our policies, procedures and training to strengthen our approach.

By maintaining a zero-tolerance stance, engaging proactively with suppliers, providing clear reporting channels and subjecting our approach to regular review, Gardeners South Hackney aims to play a responsible role in the prevention of modern slavery in all its forms.