Gardeners East Barnet Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners East Barnet has taken, and is committed to taking, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to act ethically and with integrity in all areas of our business and to ensure that modern slavery has no place within our organisation or among those who supply goods and services to us.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners East Barnet operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, servitude and exploitation. This commitment applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers. We expect everyone who works with or for us to share our stance and to uphold the same high standards of ethical conduct.

We are committed to creating a working environment where people are treated with dignity and respect, paid fairly for their work in accordance with applicable laws, and are free from coercion, intimidation and harassment. Any suggestion that modern slavery may be occurring within our business or supply chains will be treated with the utmost seriousness and investigated thoroughly.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Standards

Our supply chains include providers of horticultural products, equipment, maintenance materials and related services. We recognise that risks can be present at multiple tiers of the supply chain, particularly where goods are sourced from higher risk sectors or regions.

We are progressively strengthening our supplier due diligence processes. New and existing suppliers are expected to demonstrate that they operate in a manner consistent with our zero-tolerance policy. We communicate our expectations clearly and require suppliers to confirm compliance with all relevant labour, employment and human rights legislation in the jurisdictions in which they operate.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

To help ensure that our standards are met in practice, Gardeners East Barnet carries out proportionate supplier audits and monitoring activities. These may include requesting evidence of employment practices, reviewing supplier policies on labour and human rights, and, where appropriate, visiting supplier sites.

Where potential concerns are identified, we will work collaboratively with the supplier to address and resolve issues within an agreed timeframe. If a supplier fails to demonstrate a genuine commitment to remedying problems or is found to be involved in modern slavery or human trafficking, we reserve the right to reduce, suspend or terminate the commercial relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage all employees, workers, suppliers and other stakeholders to raise any concerns about suspected modern slavery or unethical labour practices, whether within Gardeners East Barnet or anywhere in our supply chains. Concerns can be reported to a line manager, a senior member of staff, or through established internal reporting channels.

All reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. We will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. Issues raised will be investigated promptly and appropriate action will be taken, which may include reporting matters to the relevant authorities.

Training, Awareness and Responsibility

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior management of Gardeners East Barnet. They ensure that modern slavery risks are considered in our decision making and that appropriate controls are in place.

We aim to raise awareness among relevant staff about the signs of modern slavery and the correct procedures for reporting concerns. Training and guidance will be updated as our policies and risk assessments evolve, and as best practice develops across our industry.

Review and Continuous Improvement

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually to ensure that it remains effective, up to date and aligned with our business activities and risk profile. As part of this review, we will assess the effectiveness of our due diligence, supplier audits, and reporting mechanisms, and identify opportunities for improvement.

Gardeners East Barnet is committed to continually enhancing its efforts to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking. By working closely with our employees, suppliers and other partners, we aim to foster transparent, ethical and sustainable practices throughout our operations and supply chains.