Gardeners Ilford Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Gardeners Ilford to set out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights. We are fully committed to acting ethically, transparently, and with integrity in all our business dealings.
Gardeners Ilford provides gardening and related services and works with a range of suppliers, subcontractors, and labour providers. We acknowledge that risks can exist at any stage of the supply chain and we are determined to identify, manage, and reduce those risks through robust controls, due diligence, and continuous improvement.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
Gardeners Ilford has a clear zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not tolerate any form of forced labour, servitude, bonded labour, child labour, deceptive recruitment practices, or any abuse of power or vulnerability in relation to work. This applies to all aspects of our business, including our direct employees, agency workers, subcontractors, and suppliers.
All individuals who work for or with Gardeners Ilford are expected to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct. Any breach of our zero-tolerance policy may result in termination of contracts, removal from our approved supplier list, disciplinary action, or referral to the relevant authorities where appropriate.
Our Supply Chain and Supplier Audits
Our suppliers provide products, materials, and services that support the delivery of our gardening operations. We are committed to working only with suppliers who share our values and who can demonstrate that they operate in accordance with applicable labour, human rights, and health and safety laws.
Gardeners Ilford undertakes supplier assessments and reserves the right to conduct audits of suppliers where we identify potential risks or where suppliers operate in sectors or regions that may carry higher modern slavery risks. These audits may include reviewing employment practices, worker documentation, recruitment processes, use of labour agencies, and compliance with wage and working time regulations.
Where issues are identified, we will work collaboratively with the supplier on corrective action plans, clear timelines, and follow-up checks. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to address concerns to our satisfaction, we may suspend or end our business relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Gardeners Ilford encourages all employees, workers, and external parties to raise concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices at the earliest opportunity. We are committed to ensuring that people feel safe to speak up and that concerns are taken seriously and handled confidentially as far as possible.
Concerns can be raised directly with line managers or senior management within Gardeners Ilford. We also support the use of independent advice channels and the reporting of suspected modern slavery to relevant public authorities where appropriate. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith.
All allegations or suspicions of modern slavery will be investigated promptly. Where we identify actual or potential instances of modern slavery, we will respond in a way that prioritises the safety and wellbeing of affected individuals and seeks to provide or signpost appropriate support.
Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities
Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with Gardeners Ilford senior management. Managers are expected to promote awareness, lead by example, and integrate our zero-tolerance stance into day-to-day decisions and supplier relationships.
We work to raise awareness of modern slavery indicators among relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and contract management. Training and guidance are designed to help our people understand the signs of exploitation, know how to escalate concerns, and recognise their role in maintaining ethical standards.
Monitoring, Annual Review, and Continuous Improvement
Gardeners Ilford is committed to reviewing and improving our approach to modern slavery on an ongoing basis. We monitor the effectiveness of our measures through supplier feedback, incident reporting, internal reviews, and developments in legislation and good practice.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by senior management. As part of that review, we consider changes in our operations, supply chain structure, risk profile, and industry guidance. When necessary, we update our policies, procedures, and training to strengthen our controls and improve our ability to prevent, detect, and address modern slavery.
This statement reflects Gardeners Ilford current position and will be updated and published each year to demonstrate our continuing commitment to eradicating modern slavery and human trafficking from our business and supply chains.
