Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Gardeners South Harrow in respect of our financial year and outlines the steps we take to identify, prevent and address the risks of modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly and in full compliance with applicable laws.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners South Harrow provides gardening, landscaping and grounds maintenance services. Our activities rely on a mix of direct employees, seasonal workers and third-party suppliers of plants, equipment, uniforms, waste management and other support services. We recognise that some aspects of horticulture, seasonal work and extended supply chains can present elevated risks of labour exploitation, particularly where migrant or agency labour is involved.

We are committed to working only with suppliers and partners who share our values and who can demonstrate respect for human rights, fair working conditions and lawful employment practices.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

Gardeners South Harrow has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage and child labour. We do not accept any practice that deprives individuals of their liberty, dignity or fair pay. This policy applies to everyone who works for us or on our behalf, including employees, contractors, agency staff, subcontractors and suppliers.

We expect all parties in our supply chain to uphold this zero-tolerance position. Where we identify, or reasonably suspect, non-compliance, we will take prompt action which may include suspension of work, investigation, corrective action plans or termination of the relationship where necessary.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We are progressively embedding anti-slavery expectations into our supplier selection and management processes. New and existing suppliers are assessed, as appropriate to the risk level, on their labour practices, working conditions and approach to human rights. We seek to work with suppliers who can evidence fair recruitment, transparent employment terms and safe, respectful workplaces.

Where risk is identified, we may conduct audits or request evidence including policies, workforce records and proof of right-to-work checks. Site visits may be carried out to verify working and living conditions. Any non-conformities identified through audits or assessments must be addressed through agreed corrective action plans within defined timeframes. Continued failure to meet our requirements may result in the termination of contracts.

Employee Awareness and Reporting Channels

All employees, workers and contractors are encouraged to play an active role in identifying and challenging potential instances of exploitation. We communicate our zero-tolerance stance through induction, staff briefings and internal guidance, ensuring that everyone understands the signs of modern slavery and how to raise concerns.

Concerns about suspected modern slavery, whether within our own operations or involving suppliers, can be reported to line managers or senior management. Reports may be made confidentially and will be treated seriously, fairly and sensitively. No individual raising a concern in good faith will suffer any form of retaliation or disadvantage. Where appropriate, we may escalate matters to external authorities or collaborate with relevant organisations to support victims and address the root causes.

Governance, Monitoring and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with senior management, who monitor the effectiveness of our controls and drive continuous improvement. We track our activities in areas such as supplier assessments, audits, staff awareness and incident response.

This Statement is reviewed at least annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective and aligned with evolving legislation, best practice and our business operations. As part of this annual review, we consider whether additional training, enhanced supplier due diligence, updated policies or new monitoring tools are required. Where areas for improvement are identified, we set clear actions and timelines to strengthen our response.

Gardeners South Harrow remains firmly committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all its forms and to working collaboratively with employees, suppliers and stakeholders to uphold human rights throughout our business and supply chains.