Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Hornchurch Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Hornchurch is taking to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting our business ethically and responsibly, ensuring that the rights and dignity of all individuals who contribute to our services are respected and protected.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Hornchurch adopts a clear and absolute zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to every part of our own operations and to all organisations and individuals who supply us with goods and services. We will not knowingly work with any party that is involved in, condones, or turns a blind eye to modern slavery in any form.

All directors, managers, employees, and workers engaged by Gardeners Hornchurch are expected to uphold this commitment and to act with integrity in all business dealings. Breaches of this policy by staff may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or engagement. Where suppliers are found to be in breach, we will take immediate and proportionate steps, which may include suspending work or ending the business relationship.

Our Supply Chain and Supplier Standards

Our supply chain includes providers of plants, landscaping materials, tools, equipment, uniforms, transport, and associated services. We recognise that some sectors and jurisdictions present a higher risk of labour abuse, and we actively consider these risks when entering into new supplier relationships.

We expect all suppliers to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery and to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. Suppliers are required to maintain appropriate policies, training, and due diligence procedures to ensure that slavery and trafficking do not occur in their operations or their own supply chains.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

To support our zero-tolerance stance, Gardeners Hornchurch undertakes proportionate due diligence and auditing of suppliers, particularly where risk is identified. This may include reviewing supplier policies, requesting written confirmations of compliance, and asking for details on how suppliers manage labour standards and worker protections.

Where necessary, we may conduct on-site visits or request evidence of third-party certifications or audit outcomes related to labour practices. If concerns or non-compliance are identified, we will work with the supplier to develop a corrective action plan with clear timescales. Continued non-compliance or failure to improve may lead to suspension or termination of the commercial relationship.

Employee Awareness, Responsibilities, and Reporting Channels

Every employee and worker engaged by Gardeners Hornchurch has a responsibility to help identify and report any concerns related to modern slavery. We promote a culture where issues can be raised in good faith without fear of retaliation.

Concerns about suspected modern slavery or exploitation, whether within our own operations or in our supply chain, can be reported directly to line managers or to senior management. Employees are encouraged to raise issues as soon as possible if they become aware of situations such as workers being controlled, intimidated, underpaid, or unable to leave their work freely.

All reports will be treated seriously and sensitively. Where appropriate, matters will be investigated promptly and, if necessary, escalated to relevant external authorities. Gardeners Hornchurch will not tolerate any form of victimisation against individuals who raise genuine concerns.

Training and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Hornchurch is committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery risks across the business. Training and guidance are provided to relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, supplier management, and frontline operations, to help them recognise the signs of exploitation and understand the correct reporting procedures.

We regularly review our internal processes to identify opportunities to strengthen our approach, including updating risk assessments, refining supplier selection criteria, and enhancing staff training materials as best practice evolves.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing this Modern Slavery Statement and related policies rests with the senior management of Gardeners Hornchurch. They ensure that appropriate systems are in place to identify and mitigate modern slavery risks and to respond effectively to any issues that arise.

This statement is reviewed at least once every twelve months to reflect any changes in our business operations, supply chains, legal requirements, or industry guidance. As part of the annual review, we assess the effectiveness of our actions, consider feedback from staff and stakeholders, and identify areas for further improvement.

By maintaining robust policies, conducting supplier audits, providing accessible reporting channels, and undertaking regular reviews, Gardeners Hornchurch is committed to playing its part in the ongoing fight against modern slavery and human trafficking.