Gardeners Harefield Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Harefield to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting business in a way that respects human rights, promotes safe and fair working conditions, and supports ethical sourcing and employment practices.

Zero-Tolerance Commitment

Gardeners Harefield has a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not tolerate forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, child labour that contravenes local laws, or any practices that deny individuals their freedom or fundamental rights. This commitment applies to our own activities, our staff, and every organisation and individual with whom we work.

All managers and those involved in procurement and recruitment are responsible for upholding this stance and ensuring that their decisions and actions align with this policy. Where we identify non-compliance, we will take prompt and appropriate action, which may include suspending or terminating relationships with suppliers or contractors.

Our People and Working Practices

We are committed to fair employment practices across all levels of Gardeners Harefield. Our staff are recruited in line with applicable employment laws and are offered clear terms and conditions that outline their rights, pay, and working hours. We aim to provide a safe workplace, free from abuse, intimidation, and discrimination.

Employees are free to leave their employment in line with their contractual notice and are not required to pay recruitment fees or surrender identity documents. Wages are paid directly to employees, and deductions are made only in accordance with the law and with full transparency.

Supplier Standards and Audits

Gardeners Harefield expects all suppliers, subcontractors, and business partners to share our commitment to eradicating modern slavery. We require suppliers to comply with all relevant labour laws and to uphold ethical standards in their own operations and supply chains.

We conduct proportionate due diligence on new suppliers, taking into account the nature of the goods and services, the geographic location, and any sector-specific risks. This may include requesting evidence of labour policies, codes of conduct, or statements regarding modern slavery.

We reserve the right to audit suppliers, either directly or through third parties, to assess compliance with our standards. Where audits or other checks identify concerns, we will work with the supplier to address these issues within a defined timeframe. Failure to remedy serious or persistent breaches may result in the ending of commercial relationships.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Harefield encourages anyone with concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to our business to report them without fear of retaliation. Concerns may be raised by employees, workers in our supply chain, or members of the public.

Reports can be made confidentially through internal reporting routes, including line managers or other senior personnel. All concerns will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively. We will protect those who raise concerns in good faith from detrimental treatment, and we will involve relevant authorities where necessary.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and site management. Training and guidance may include information on recognising warning signs, understanding our policies, and knowing how to report concerns.

By increasing awareness, we aim to strengthen our ability to identify and address potential issues at an early stage and to embed respect for human rights throughout our day-to-day operations.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Harefield recognises that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We will review this Modern Slavery Statement and our related policies at least once every year, or more frequently if there are significant changes in legislation, our business activities, or identified risks.

The annual review will consider any incidents reported, the effectiveness of our due diligence and audits, feedback from stakeholders, and developments in best practice. Where improvements are identified, we will update our processes and communicate changes to staff and relevant partners.

This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Harefield and represents our commitment to ethical conduct, respect for human rights, and continuous improvement in our approach to preventing modern slavery.