Gardeners Southfields Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Southfields has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking from occurring within our business operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our relationships and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery does not take place.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners Southfields provides gardening, landscaping, and grounds maintenance services to residential and commercial clients. Our activities rely on a network of suppliers and subcontractors who provide plants, materials, tools, equipment, and specialist services. We recognise that certain sectors of the labour market and product supply chains may be more vulnerable to modern slavery risks, and we are committed to identifying and managing those risks responsibly.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

Gardeners Southfields has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, human trafficking, child labour, and any form of exploitation. We will not knowingly work with any organisation that disregards or violates human rights or labour standards. Our management team is responsible for ensuring that this commitment is embedded across our business and that all colleagues understand the behaviours expected of them.

All employees, workers, and subcontractors are required to comply with our standards. Any breach or suspected breach of this policy by an employee will be treated as a serious disciplinary matter which may result in termination of employment. For suppliers and subcontractors, confirmed breaches may result in suspension, termination of contracts, or removal from our approved supplier list.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect our suppliers and subcontractors to uphold the same high standards that we set for ourselves. Gardeners Southfields is developing and maintaining supplier standards that require compliance with all relevant labour, employment, and human rights laws, as well as alignment with our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery.

To support these standards, we carry out proportionate supplier due diligence and audits. This may include gathering information on employment practices, working conditions, recruitment processes, and the use of subcontracted labour. Where appropriate, we may conduct site visits or request documented evidence of compliance. We prioritise closer scrutiny of higher risk suppliers, including those operating in sectors or regions with known vulnerabilities to labour exploitation.

If an audit or review identifies concerns, we will work with the supplier on a corrective action plan and monitor progress. Where serious or repeated issues are identified, we reserve the right to cease working with that supplier.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Southfields encourages a culture of openness and accountability. We expect all staff, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or unethical labour practices within our business or supply chains. Concerns can be raised through established internal reporting channels to line managers or senior management.

Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. We will not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith, whether those concerns are ultimately substantiated or not. Where appropriate and lawful, we will cooperate with relevant authorities in investigating and addressing reported issues.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery risks among our workforce and management team. Relevant employees receive information and guidance on recognising indicators of exploitation and on how to report concerns. As our procedures develop, we aim to embed modern slavery awareness into our wider training and induction processes, particularly for those involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management.

Gardeners Southfields recognises that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing effort. We are committed to reviewing and strengthening our policies, due diligence processes, and stakeholder engagement to ensure continuous improvement in our approach.

Monitoring and Annual Review

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the leadership of Gardeners Southfields. The review considers any updated legislation, industry guidance, risk assessments, reported concerns, audit findings, and feedback from employees or suppliers. Where necessary, we will update our procedures and take additional action to ensure our approach remains effective, proportionate, and aligned with best practice.

By maintaining strong governance, clear expectations, and a zero-tolerance culture, Gardeners Southfields aims to contribute to the elimination of modern slavery and to ensure that everyone connected with our business is treated with dignity, fairness, and respect.