Gardeners Brockley Modern Slavery Statement

This modern slavery statement sets out the approach taken by Gardeners Brockley to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation in our own operations and within our supply chains. We are committed to conducting business in a responsible and ethical manner and to upholding the rights and dignity of every person who contributes to our services.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Brockley operates a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to our direct workforce, agency workers, contractors, and every tier of our supply chain. We will not knowingly engage with any supplier, subcontractor, or business partner that is involved in, or associated with, practices that constitute modern slavery.

All managers and supervisors are expected to lead by example, promoting a culture where respect for human rights is integral to day-to-day decision-making. Any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery will be treated as a serious breach of our standards and may lead to the termination of commercial relationships and, where appropriate, the involvement of relevant authorities.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Expectations

Our supply chains include providers of plants, gardening materials, equipment, tools, uniforms, transport, and ancillary services. We expect all suppliers to comply with applicable employment, labour, and human rights legislation in the countries in which they operate, and to adopt work practices that protect the health, safety, and welfare of workers.

Suppliers are required to ensure that work is freely chosen, that workers are of legal working age, that wages meet or exceed legal minimums, and that working hours are reasonable and lawfully managed. We expect suppliers to prohibit the use of forced, bonded, or indentured labour, and to prevent any form of abusive or inhumane treatment within their operations.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

Gardeners Brockley is strengthening its due diligence processes to identify and mitigate the risk of modern slavery within our supply chains. This includes conducting proportionate assessments of new and existing suppliers, with a focus on those operating in higher risk sectors or locations.

Where appropriate, we will undertake audits or request evidence and documentation from suppliers to demonstrate compliance with labour and human rights standards. These reviews may include questions on recruitment practices, the use of labour agencies, worker contracts, wage records, and grievance mechanisms. If concerns arise, we will work with the supplier to address them, or, if necessary, suspend or end the business relationship.

Training, Awareness, and Reporting Channels

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our team members. Training and guidance will be provided to those involved in procurement, contract management, and site supervision so that they can recognise potential warning signs and respond appropriately.

Gardeners Brockley encourages all workers, subcontractors, and other stakeholders to report concerns about modern slavery, exploitation, or unsafe working practices without fear of victimisation. Reports can be made to line managers or senior management. All concerns will be handled sensitively, and where possible, confidentially. We will investigate all credible reports and take appropriate action to address identified issues.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

This modern slavery statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with evolving legislation and good practice. As part of this review, we evaluate our risk assessment, due diligence processes, supplier engagement, and training activities, and we identify opportunities to improve our approach.

Gardeners Brockley is committed to continuous improvement in preventing modern slavery and protecting the rights and wellbeing of everyone contributing to our services. This statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Brockley and will be updated each year to reflect our ongoing efforts and any significant changes in our business or supply chains.