Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Harrow Weald

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the approach of Gardeners Harrow Weald to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, workers, contractors, and suppliers engaged in providing gardening, landscaping, and related services on behalf of our business.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Harrow Weald has a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery is not taking place anywhere in our own operations or in any of our supply chains.

All individuals working for or with Gardeners Harrow Weald are expected to uphold this commitment. Any conduct that is inconsistent with this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in appropriate action, which can include termination of employment or commercial relationships.

Our Operations and Supply Chains

Gardeners Harrow Weald provides gardening and landscaping services, which involve the use of plants, tools, equipment, materials, and seasonal labour. Our supply chains include nurseries, tool and equipment suppliers, maintenance service providers, and other specialist contractors.

We recognise that some parts of the gardening and wider horticultural sector can be vulnerable to labour exploitation, particularly where temporary, seasonal, or migrant labour is involved. We aim to work only with reputable suppliers and partners who share our commitment to respecting human rights and preventing modern slavery.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers and contractors to comply with applicable laws relating to employment, working conditions, and modern slavery. We also expect them to maintain fair recruitment and employment practices, including the prohibition of forced or bonded labour, the prevention of child labour, and the respect of workers' rights to freedom of movement and the right to leave employment.

To support this, Gardeners Harrow Weald is implementing supplier due diligence and proportionate audits. These measures may include requesting information about a supplier's workforce, checking policies and procedures on labour practices, and conducting site visits where appropriate and practical. Where significant risks are identified, we will work with suppliers to address these concerns. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to meet our expectations, we may reconsider or terminate the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

We actively encourage employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or human trafficking in our operations or supply chains. Reports can be made to management in person or in writing, and individuals are encouraged to provide as much detail as possible to enable a thorough review and response.

Gardeners Harrow Weald will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated upon investigation. All reports will be treated sensitively, handled confidentially where possible, and investigated promptly. Where appropriate, we will engage with relevant authorities or specialist organisations to ensure that any identified victims are protected and supported.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery risks among our management team and key staff, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and supervision of workers or contractors. Training and guidance will focus on recognising the signs of exploitation, understanding our reporting channels, and applying our standards when selecting and managing suppliers.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Harrow Weald recognises that combating modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility that requires continual improvement. We will review this Modern Slavery Statement annually to assess the effectiveness of our policies, controls, training, and supplier due diligence. The review will consider any issues or incidents raised during the year, changes in our operations or supply chains, and developments in legal or best practice standards.

Following each annual review, we will update this statement as necessary and take additional steps to strengthen our approach, including refining our risk assessments, enhancing audits, and improving communication and training. This statement represents our current stance and our continuing commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in every part of Gardeners Harrow Weald.