Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Old Ford

Gardeners Old Ford is committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, forced labour, servitude, and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. As a responsible gardening services provider, we recognise that ethical practices must guide every part of our work, from procurement to service delivery.

Our zero-tolerance policy is central to this commitment. We do not accept any form of exploitation, whether direct or indirect, and we expect the same standard from everyone we work with. All staff, contractors, and suppliers are required to act in line with our values and to comply with relevant employment, health and safety, and human rights obligations. We believe that vigilance, transparency, and accountability are essential in reducing risk.

We assess our exposure to modern slavery risks on an ongoing basis, with particular attention to labour-intensive activities, subcontracted work, seasonal roles, and the sourcing of goods such as tools, uniforms, and materials. Where risks are identified, we apply enhanced due diligence, seek additional assurances, and take proportionate action to reduce the likelihood of harm. Our approach reflects the changing nature of supply chains and the importance of responsible oversight.

Supplier Oversight and Due Diligence

Supplier audits are a key part of our preventative controls. We conduct checks on current and prospective suppliers to confirm that they share our ethical expectations and maintain appropriate labour standards. These audits may include document reviews, workforce assurances, policy checks, and, where appropriate, site visits. If concerns arise, we investigate promptly and may suspend or end the relationship if issues are not resolved.

Gardeners Old Ford also requires suppliers to confirm that workers are employed voluntarily, are of legal working age, and receive lawful pay and conditions. We encourage suppliers to maintain accurate records and to provide evidence of their own compliance systems. By setting clear expectations, we reduce the risk that modern slavery could enter our supply chain unnoticed.

Training and awareness are also important tools in our response. Relevant team members receive guidance on recognising warning signs, including restricted freedom of movement, poor accommodation, withheld documents, or signs of coercion. We want our people to understand not only what modern slavery looks like, but also how to respond safely and responsibly when concerns appear.

Reporting, Investigation, and Annual Review

We maintain clear reporting channels so that concerns can be raised quickly and without fear of retaliation. Any worker, supplier, or partner who suspects exploitation is encouraged to report it through internal management routes or established whistleblowing procedures. Reports are handled with confidentiality, taken seriously, and escalated for investigation where necessary. No one will suffer disadvantage for raising a genuine concern in good faith.

Every report is assessed to determine the appropriate response, which may include interviews, document checks, supplier engagement, or referral to external authorities. If a breach is confirmed, we act decisively to protect affected individuals and to prevent recurrence. Our intention is not only to address incidents, but also to strengthen prevention across the business.

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, current, and aligned with best practice. As part of each review, we examine any incidents, audit findings, supplier performance, and changes in legislation or risk profile. The review helps Gardeners Old Ford improve controls, refresh training, and refine procurement standards where needed.

Our Ongoing Commitment

Gardeners Old Ford understands that combating modern slavery is a continuing responsibility rather than a one-time exercise. We are committed to learning, improving, and acting with integrity in every area of our work. Through strong governance, supplier audits, open reporting channels, and annual review, we aim to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and contribute to the prevention of exploitation in the wider industry.

Accountability and Continuous Improvement

To reinforce this commitment, management oversees the implementation of this statement and monitors progress against our ethical standards. Any identified gap is addressed through corrective action, supplier engagement, or policy update. By combining prevention, detection, and response, our Gardeners Old Ford modern slavery approach supports a safer and more responsible supply chain for everyone involved.