Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Herne Hill

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Herne Hill is taking to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and exploitation in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a grave violation of human rights and we are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships.

Gardeners Herne Hill provides gardening, landscaping and related services. While our direct workforce is relatively small and locally based, we rely on a wider network of suppliers for plants, materials, tools, equipment and outsourced services. This statement covers our own activities and the conduct we expect from all parties connected to our business.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

Gardeners Herne Hill has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery. We do not accept, condone or facilitate the use of forced, bonded, child or compulsory labour in any part of our operations or supply chains. We will not knowingly work with any individual, contractor or organisation that engages in, or is complicit in, such practices.

Our zero-tolerance stance is communicated to employees, subcontractors and suppliers through our policies, contractual terms and ongoing discussions. Compliance with applicable labour, employment and human rights laws is a fundamental requirement for doing business with Gardeners Herne Hill.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

We expect our suppliers to uphold the same high standards that we set for ourselves. This includes providing safe working conditions, paying fair wages in line with legal requirements, respecting working time regulations and ensuring that all workers are employed freely and voluntarily.

To support these expectations, Gardeners Herne Hill is strengthening its supplier due diligence and monitoring processes. New suppliers are assessed on their ability to meet our ethical standards, including their approach to modern slavery and labour rights. Where appropriate, we request information about their policies, workforce practices and the origin of products and materials.

We carry out periodic supplier reviews and reserve the right to conduct audits, site visits or request supporting documentation. If we identify non-compliance or concerns about the risk of modern slavery, we will work with the supplier to agree corrective actions within a defined timeframe. If issues are not resolved, we may suspend or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

Gardeners Herne Hill encourages an open culture where concerns about unethical behaviour can be raised without fear of retaliation. Any employee, worker, subcontractor or supplier who suspects that modern slavery or related abuses may be occurring in connection with our business is urged to speak up.

Concerns can be raised with a manager, a senior member of the business or through any established internal reporting channel. Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. We will investigate all credible allegations and take appropriate action, which may include involving relevant authorities.

No person who raises a concern in good faith will suffer dismissal, disciplinary action or any other form of detriment as a result of speaking up. We are committed to fostering a culture of transparency and accountability.

Training, Awareness and Continuous Improvement

We recognise that preventing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. Gardeners Herne Hill is working to increase awareness among employees and key suppliers so that they can recognise indicators of exploitation and know how to respond. Where relevant, training and guidance will be provided to those involved in procurement, supplier management and recruitment.

We are committed to continuously reviewing our policies, procedures and controls to strengthen our approach to human rights and ethical trading. Feedback from staff, clients and suppliers is welcomed as part of this improvement process.

Annual Review and Approval

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least once every twelve months to ensure it remains accurate, effective and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. The review will consider any incidents reported, findings from supplier audits, changes to our supply chains and the evolving risk landscape.

Following each review, Gardeners Herne Hill will update this statement and our related policies as needed. The updated statement will be approved by the leadership of Gardeners Herne Hill and made available to our clients, employees and other stakeholders. By maintaining this regular review process, we aim to demonstrate our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and protecting the rights and dignity of all workers connected to our business.