Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Gardeners Chingford is committed to conducting its business in an honest, ethical, and responsible manner. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, workers, agency staff, contractors, and suppliers engaged by Gardeners Chingford.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Chingford has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation that participates in or condones such practices. We are committed to acting with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery is not taking place anywhere in our business or supply chains.

All managers are responsible for promoting awareness of this policy within their teams, and all workers are expected to act in accordance with our values. Any breach of this policy by an employee may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Any breach by a supplier or contractor may result in the termination of our relationship with that party.

Supply Chain Standards and Due Diligence

Our supply chain includes providers of gardening materials, equipment, uniforms, and ancillary services. We recognise that some sectors and geographical regions present a higher risk of labour exploitation. To address these risks, Gardeners Chingford has established minimum standards of conduct that all suppliers are expected to meet. These standards include the prohibition of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, as well as the prohibition of child labour that does not meet legal working age and schooling requirements.

Before entering into a new relationship, we seek to assess prospective suppliers for their approach to labour practices and ethical conduct. We aim to work with suppliers who share our commitment to human rights, fair treatment, and safe working conditions. Where appropriate, we request evidence of policies, procedures, and training on modern slavery and human trafficking.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

Gardeners Chingford reserves the right to conduct audits of key suppliers where a risk of modern slavery is identified or where additional assurance is required. These audits may include reviewing employment records, working conditions, and the procedures used to verify workers identities and legal right to work. The purpose of these audits is to confirm that suppliers are complying with our standards and applicable laws.

Where concerns are identified, we may require corrective action plans with defined timescales. Continued non-compliance or a failure to implement agreed improvements may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship. We also monitor supplier performance on an ongoing basis through regular contact, contract reviews, and periodic reassessment of risk.

Reporting Concerns and Channels for Raising Issues

Gardeners Chingford encourages all employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns they may have about modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to our business or supply chains. Concerns can be raised through line management, a senior manager, or through any established internal reporting channel available within the business.

Reports may be made confidentially, and we will treat all disclosures sensitively and seriously. We will investigate any allegation of modern slavery and take appropriate action, which may include contacting relevant authorities. We will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated upon investigation.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and supplier relationships. Where appropriate, employees receive guidance on recognising potential indicators of exploitation and the steps to take if they have concerns.

Gardeners Chingford acknowledges that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We strive to improve our processes, risk assessments, and engagement with suppliers over time. Feedback from employees and business partners is welcomed and helps us refine our approach.

Annual Review and Statement Approval

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed at least annually to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and aligned with legal requirements and good practice. As part of the review, we consider any incidents reported, the effectiveness of our controls, and changes in our operations or supply chains.

The statement is approved by the senior management of Gardeners Chingford, who are responsible for overseeing its implementation and ensuring that the commitments set out here are embedded throughout the organisation. By maintaining a clear zero-tolerance stance, robust supplier oversight, accessible reporting channels, and a process of regular review, Gardeners Chingford aims to play its part in helping to eradicate modern slavery and human trafficking.