Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Newington Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Gardeners Newington in respect of the financial year to which it relates. It sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Gardeners Newington is committed to conducting business ethically and with integrity, and to respecting the human rights of all individuals who contribute to our services.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Newington has a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour and all forms of exploitation. This commitment applies to all aspects of our business, including direct employment, contracted services and our wider supply chains. We expect the same high standards from all parties with whom we work.

We clearly communicate our zero-tolerance stance to our employees, contractors and suppliers. Any suspected instance of modern slavery linked to our business will be treated as a serious breach of our standards and may result in the termination of contracts, notification to relevant authorities and other appropriate remedial actions.

Our Supply Chains and Risk Management

Our operations rely on a range of suppliers, including horticultural product providers, equipment manufacturers, maintenance services and labour agencies. Gardeners Newington recognises that certain sectors and geographies can present a higher risk of modern slavery. We assess these risks and focus our due diligence and monitoring efforts where they are most needed.

We require suppliers to comply with all applicable laws relating to labour, employment and human rights. We also expect them to have their own policies and procedures to prevent modern slavery and to cascade these expectations through their own supply chains.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

Gardeners Newington undertakes proportionate due diligence on new and existing suppliers to identify and address potential modern slavery risks. This may include pre-qualification questionnaires, requests for policy documentation, and confirmation of compliance with labour and human rights standards.

We reserve the right to conduct audits of suppliers where we consider the risk of modern slavery to be elevated. These audits may review working conditions, recruitment practices, wage records and other relevant information. Where concerns are identified, we will seek corrective action within a defined timescale. If serious or persistent non-compliance is discovered, we may suspend or end the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Escalation Channels

Gardeners Newington encourages anyone connected to our business, including employees, agency workers, contractors and suppliers, to report any concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith.

Concerns can be raised through internal management channels or via designated reporting mechanisms that are made known to staff and key suppliers. Reported issues are treated confidentially to the fullest extent possible and are promptly investigated. Where appropriate, we will work with relevant organisations and authorities to support victims and address the root causes of any identified abuses.

Training and Awareness

To help prevent modern slavery, Gardeners Newington provides guidance and training to relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management and on-site supervision. This training covers recognising indicators of modern slavery, understanding our policies and knowing how and where to raise concerns.

We promote ongoing awareness so that modern slavery considerations remain integrated into our day-to-day decision making. Our expectations are also reinforced through our contractual terms and supplier communications.

Monitoring, Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Newington is committed to reviewing and improving our approach to preventing modern slavery. This Statement, along with our supporting policies and procedures, is reviewed on at least an annual basis or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, best practice or our business operations.

As part of our annual review, we consider the effectiveness of our due diligence, the outcomes of any audits or investigations, feedback from stakeholders and emerging guidance regarding modern slavery. We then update our processes and training as necessary to strengthen our response and to support continuous improvement in our practices.

This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Newington and reflects our ongoing commitment to uphold human rights, dignity and fair treatment across our business and supply chains.