Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Addington Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Addington to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to respect human rights and to ensure that our business activities do not contribute to any form of exploitation.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Addington adopts a zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour in any part of our business or supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to identify, prevent, and address potential risks.

All employees, managers, contractors, and suppliers are expected to support this commitment. We will not knowingly work with any party that violates, or is suspected of violating, applicable labour and human rights standards. Where concerns arise, we will act promptly and decisively, which may include suspending or terminating business relationships.

Supply Chain Standards and Due Diligence

We work with a range of suppliers who provide goods, materials, and services that support our gardening, landscaping, and related business activities. We expect all suppliers to uphold the same high standards on labour practices as we impose on ourselves.

As part of our due diligence processes, we seek to identify areas of higher risk within our supply chains and focus our attention on those relationships. Suppliers are required to acknowledge our expectations regarding fair treatment of workers, lawful employment practices, safe working conditions, and respect for human rights.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

To reinforce our zero-tolerance policy, we conduct proportionate checks and audits of selected suppliers, particularly where we consider the risk of labour exploitation to be elevated. These audits may include reviewing relevant policies and documentation, requesting evidence of right-to-work checks, and assessing working conditions where feasible.

Where potential issues are identified, we will work collaboratively with suppliers to develop corrective action plans and monitor their implementation. Failure to address confirmed concerns in a timely and satisfactory manner may result in the restriction or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Speaking Up

Gardeners Addington encourages a culture of openness, where employees, contractors, and other stakeholders feel able to raise concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices without fear of retaliation. Concerns may relate to our own operations or to those of any supplier or business partner.

Reports can be made through established internal reporting channels, including to line managers or designated senior personnel. All concerns raised will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. Where appropriate, we will involve specialist advisers or relevant external bodies to support any investigation and response.

Training and Awareness

We recognise that effective prevention of modern slavery relies on awareness and vigilance. Gardeners Addington is committed to providing relevant information and guidance to employees, especially those involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management, so they can identify warning signs and respond appropriately.

We promote awareness of this Statement and our expectations through internal communications and by incorporating modern slavery considerations into relevant procedures and guidance materials.

Review, Accountability, and Continuous Improvement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure that it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. As part of this review, we assess the outcomes of our due diligence, any concerns reported, and the effectiveness of our supplier audits and training initiatives.

Gardeners Addington is committed to continuous improvement in identifying and managing the risk of modern slavery within our operations and supply chains. We will update our approach as needed, taking into account changes in legislation, guidance, and stakeholder expectations, and we will continue to refine our processes to help ensure that all people connected with our business are treated with dignity and respect.