Gardeners Chislehurst Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Chislehurst publishes this Modern Slavery Statement to affirm our commitment to preventing forced labour, human trafficking and exploitation in all parts of our business. We operate a zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and are resolute that any form of exploitation is incompatible with our values. This anti-slavery statement applies to our operations and to the conduct we expect from suppliers and contractors.

Our Policy Commitment

We maintain a clear and enforceable zero-tolerance policy across Gardeners Chislehurst. All employees, subcontractors and suppliers are required to comply with our standards and code of conduct. We define unacceptable practices, including withholding wages, restricting freedom of movement, debt bondage and withholding identity documents, and we commit to taking immediate action where breaches are identified.

Scope and Responsibilities

This slavery and human trafficking statement covers all activities undertaken by Gardeners Chislehurst and its supply chain relationships. Senior management has ultimate responsibility for the implementation of this anti-slavery statement, and operational leads are tasked with embedding controls into procurement, recruitment and client project management. Employees receive training to recognise signs of modern slavery and to understand reporting routes.

We operate a risk-based approach to supplier management. Supplier due diligence and supplier audits form an integral part of our procurement process. Prior to engagement, suppliers must complete a pre-qualification assessment that includes questions on labour practices, worker rights and subcontracting arrangements. Where risk indicators are present we carry out enhanced checks and site visits to verify compliance with our standards.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

Our supplier audit programme combines document reviews, on-site inspections and worker interviews. Audits assess pay, working hours, recruitment practices, health and safety and the presence of any coercive practices. Findings are recorded, and non-compliances trigger corrective action plans with clear timelines and follow-up audits. Repeated or severe breaches may lead to suspension or termination of contracts.

To reinforce supplier accountability we include modern slavery clauses in contracts and require suppliers to provide evidence of fair recruitment, transparent payroll, and lawful subcontractor management. We encourage continuous improvement through collaborative remediation where appropriate, but maintain the right to disengage where remediation is not timely or sufficient.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Chislehurst maintains multiple safe and confidential reporting channels so concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation. Employees, workers in our supply chain and third parties are encouraged to report suspected modern slavery via internal reporting lines and designated compliance contacts. Reports are handled promptly and impartially.

Our available reporting mechanisms include:

• Confidential internal reporting to line managers or HR;
• Anonymous reporting through our whistleblowing process;
• Escalation to senior management and, where appropriate, referral to law enforcement or statutory agencies.

Training, Review and Continuous Improvement

We provide regular training to staff on recognising modern slavery risks and on the procedures to follow if concerns arise. Our training emphasises practical red flags and the responsibilities of all personnel. This modern slavery policy is subject to an annual review by senior leadership to measure effectiveness, review audit outcomes and update controls in line with evolving risks.

Gardeners Chislehurst will report on progress in its annual compliance review, publishing updates on actions taken, audit results and remediation outcomes. We are committed to continuous improvement of our slavery and human trafficking statement and to strengthening supplier relationships that respect and promote workers’ rights.

By implementing robust supplier audits, clearly communicated reporting channels, a firm zero-tolerance stance and an annual review cycle, Gardeners Chislehurst seeks to ensure that our workplaces and supply chains are free from exploitation. This statement represents our ongoing dedication to ethical conduct and to protecting the dignity of every person connected to our operations.

We will continue to refine our approach, respond to new intelligence and maintain vigilance across the business to prevent modern slavery in all its forms.