Gardeners Bexley Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Bexley takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to act ethically and to uphold the rights and dignity of every person who contributes to our services, whether directly or indirectly.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Bexley adopts a clear zero-tolerance stance towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, and exploitation. We are committed to conducting our business with integrity and transparency and to ensuring that everyone working for or with us is treated fairly and lawfully.

All employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to share this commitment. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation that is involved in, or turns a blind eye to, modern slavery or related abuses. If there is credible evidence that a partner has breached these standards, we will act promptly, including suspending or terminating the relationship where appropriate.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners Bexley provides gardening and related services, working with a range of suppliers who support our operations. These include providers of plants, tools, equipment, uniforms, transport, and other operational services. We recognise that certain sectors and regions may pose higher risks, and we take proportionate steps to reduce and manage those risks.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws and to uphold standards that are consistent with our own. As part of our procurement and ongoing supplier management processes, we assess the risk of modern slavery within our supply chains.

We reserve the right to conduct audits or request evidence from suppliers to demonstrate compliance with our standards, including policies on worker rights, recruitment practices, working hours, and remuneration. Where higher risks are identified, we may carry out more frequent or detailed reviews and seek corrective action plans if needed.

Suppliers who fail to meet our expectations, or who do not cooperate with reasonable requests for information or audit, may be removed from our approved supplier list.

Employees, Training, and Awareness

We aim to ensure that relevant employees, especially those involved in procurement, contract management, and on-site supervision, understand the risks and indicators of modern slavery. Training and guidance may cover topics such as recognising signs of exploitation, understanding legal obligations, and using appropriate reporting channels.

All employees are required to act ethically, follow company policies, and report any concerns related to modern slavery or human trafficking. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action in line with our internal procedures.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Bexley encourages anyone who has concerns about modern slavery or unethical practices within our operations or supply chain to raise them at the earliest opportunity. Concerns can be reported through internal management channels, including line managers and senior leadership, or via existing whistleblowing procedures where applicable.

We will treat all reports sensitively, investigate them appropriately, and take action where necessary. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith, whether they are an employee, contractor, or other stakeholder.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that preventing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility and a process of continuous improvement. Gardeners Bexley is committed to regularly reviewing and enhancing our policies, procedures, and due diligence activities to address emerging risks and best practice standards.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement will be reviewed at least once a year by our leadership team. As part of that review, we will consider the effectiveness of our actions, feedback from stakeholders, and changes in legal or regulatory requirements. Where necessary, we will update our approach and communicate any significant changes to employees and, where appropriate, to suppliers.

This statement reflects the position of Gardeners Bexley at the time of publication and applies to our activities for the current financial year.