Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Haggerston

Gardeners Haggerston is committed to conducting all business activities ethically, responsibly, and in full compliance with applicable laws. This Modern Slavery 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, contractors, and suppliers associated with Gardeners Haggerston.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, servitude, and human trafficking, is a severe violation of fundamental human rights. Gardeners Haggerston operates a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery. We will not knowingly do business with any individual or organisation that engages in, or is complicit in, such practices.

All team members are expected to act with integrity and to uphold our values in every aspect of their work. Any behaviour that undermines the dignity or freedom of individuals is unacceptable and will result in appropriate action, which may include termination of employment or business relationships.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Standards

Our supply chains include providers of gardening products, tools, equipment, uniforms, logistics, and a range of professional and support services. We recognise that risks of modern slavery can exist at different tiers within these supply chains, particularly where there are complex sourcing arrangements or low-cost labour markets.

We are committed to working with suppliers that share our values and demonstrate respect for human rights. As part of our supplier onboarding and ongoing management, we communicate our expectations regarding fair labour, safe working conditions, and prohibition of modern slavery. Suppliers are required to comply with all relevant labour and human rights laws in the countries where they operate.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

To support our zero-tolerance stance, Gardeners Haggerston undertakes proportionate due diligence and oversight of suppliers. This includes risk-based supplier audits and assessments designed to identify potential indicators of modern slavery or exploitative labour practices.

Where appropriate, our audits may involve reviewing employment records, health and safety procedures, working hours, wage practices, and the use of recruitment agencies or labour intermediaries. If concerns are identified, we will work collaboratively with the supplier to address them within a reasonable timeframe. Where necessary, and if corrective action is not taken or is not possible, we will suspend or terminate the relationship.

We keep records of the outcomes of these audits and use them to inform decisions about ongoing supplier relationships, as well as to refine our risk assessment processes.

Reporting Channels and Escalation

Gardeners Haggerston encourages all employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns about modern slavery, human trafficking, or other unethical conduct. Individuals can raise concerns through their line manager or a senior member of the management team. Reports can be made confidentially, and we will take all concerns seriously.

We are committed to protecting anyone who raises a concern in good faith from retaliation or detrimental treatment. All allegations will be reviewed promptly, and where appropriate, investigated thoroughly. If we confirm or reasonably suspect any instance of modern slavery, we will take immediate action, which may include notifying relevant authorities and collaborating with external organisations where appropriate.

Training and Awareness

We recognise that preventing modern slavery requires awareness and vigilance. Gardeners Haggerston provides guidance to relevant team members on recognising warning signs of exploitation and understanding the appropriate steps for reporting concerns. As our business evolves, we will continue to develop and improve our training materials and internal guidance.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

This Modern Slavery Statement is approved by the leadership of Gardeners Haggerston and forms part of our wider approach to ethical business conduct and corporate responsibility. We monitor the effectiveness of our measures through ongoing supplier reviews, audit outcomes, and feedback from employees and partners.

We are committed to continuous improvement. This statement and our associated procedures are reviewed at least annually and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, and the nature of our operations and supply chains. We also consider lessons learned from any issues raised and use them to strengthen our controls.

By publishing this Modern Slavery Statement, Gardeners Haggerston reaffirms its commitment to upholding human rights, promoting fair and safe working conditions, and working collaboratively with partners to eradicate modern slavery from our business and supply chains.