Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Old Ford has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a global issue affecting all sectors and we are committed to playing our part in its eradication.

Our Organisation and Supply Chains

Gardeners Old Ford operates within the horticulture and garden services sector and works with a range of suppliers providing plants, materials, equipment, and ancillary services. Our supply chains extend across the United Kingdom and, in some instances, to international producers and distributors. We acknowledge that longer and more complex supply chains can create a higher risk of labour exploitation, and we therefore adopt a structured approach to assessing and managing these risks.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

Gardeners Old Ford has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, child labour, debt bondage, and human trafficking. This policy applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, consultants, and suppliers engaged by our organisation. We expect everyone who works with or for us to uphold the same high standards and to act with integrity in all business dealings.

Our zero-tolerance approach is embedded in our internal policies, including recruitment, procurement, and whistleblowing procedures, and is reinforced through our contractual requirements with suppliers and service providers. Any breach or suspected breach of this policy is treated seriously and may result in the termination of business relationships or disciplinary action, where appropriate.

Due Diligence and Supplier Audits

We are committed to implementing and maintaining robust due diligence processes to identify, assess, and mitigate the risk of modern slavery in our supply chains. Before entering into new supplier relationships, we conduct proportionate checks on ownership, operating locations, labour practices, and ethical standards.

Gardeners Old Ford undertakes periodic supplier audits, focusing on higher-risk suppliers based on sector, geography, and the nature of goods or services provided. These audits may include on-site visits, review of employment records, verification of worker age, and assessment of health and safety conditions. Where appropriate, we ask suppliers to complete self-assessment questionnaires that cover labour practices, recruitment methods, and grievance mechanisms.

If non-compliance or areas of concern are identified, we work with the supplier to agree an improvement plan with clearly defined actions and timescales. Where meaningful improvement is not achieved, we reserve the right to suspend or end the commercial relationship.

Training and Awareness

We recognise that effective prevention of modern slavery depends on awareness and vigilance. Gardeners Old Ford provides training and guidance to relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and recruitment. This training helps staff to identify warning signs of exploitation, understand our reporting routes, and respond appropriately to concerns.

We also encourage open dialogue with our suppliers to promote understanding of modern slavery risks and to support continuous improvement in working conditions within our shared supply chains.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Old Ford is committed to fostering a culture where concerns about modern slavery can be raised without fear of retaliation. Employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspicion or evidence of forced labour, trafficking, exploitation, or related unethical behaviour.

Concerns can be raised through our internal reporting channels, including line management, human resources, and our whistleblowing procedure. Reports may be made confidentially and will be handled sensitively and promptly. All concerns are investigated, and where necessary, we collaborate with appropriate external bodies or authorities. We will support any individual who raises a concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated upon investigation.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

We recognise that addressing modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires regular review and improvement. Gardeners Old Ford monitors the effectiveness of our policies, due diligence activities, and supplier audits, and adjusts our approach where new risks or best practices emerge.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed annually by senior management to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and aligned with our organisational values and legal obligations. As part of the review, we assess our progress against objectives, consider feedback from stakeholders, and identify opportunities to strengthen our controls and training.

By publishing this statement, Gardeners Old Ford reaffirms its commitment to conducting business ethically, respecting human rights, and taking proactive steps to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains.