Gardeners Chelsfield Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Chelsfield has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious global issue that can occur in many forms, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, human trafficking, and other forms of exploitation. Gardeners Chelsfield is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships.

We operate within the gardening and horticultural sector and work with a range of suppliers, subcontractors, and service providers. We understand that certain areas of the supply chain can be more vulnerable to labour abuses, particularly where work is seasonal or labour intensive. Our approach is to identify and mitigate these risks through robust controls, clear communication of expectations, and continuous improvement.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

Gardeners Chelsfield has a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, and any related exploitation. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation or individual involved in such practices. All colleagues, contractors, and suppliers are expected to uphold this policy as a fundamental condition of working with us.

Our zero-tolerance stance means that if any incident or suspicion of modern slavery is identified in our business or supply chain, we will act immediately. This may include suspending or terminating relationships with suppliers or partners, cooperating fully with relevant authorities, and taking steps to protect affected individuals. We are committed to embedding this stance into our culture, procedures, and decision-making processes.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers and contractors to operate to high ethical and labour standards, in line with applicable laws and our own values. As part of our onboarding process, we assess suppliers for compliance with labour, health and safety, and human rights standards. We communicate our expectations clearly and require suppliers to confirm that they do not engage in modern slavery or human trafficking.

Gardeners Chelsfield undertakes periodic audits and reviews of selected suppliers based on risk, size, and nature of services provided. These audits may include requests for evidence of employment practices, right to work checks, wage records, and health and safety procedures. Where concerns are identified, we work with suppliers to develop corrective action plans and monitor progress. If satisfactory improvement is not achieved, we reserve the right to review and, if necessary, end the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Protection

We encourage anyone working for or with Gardeners Chelsfield to report concerns about potential modern slavery, whether in our own operations or within our supply chain. Concerns may include suspicion of forced labour, unsafe or degrading working conditions, retention of identity documents, or any form of coercion or abuse.

Reports can be made to line managers, senior management, or through internal reporting routes that allow concerns to be raised in confidence. We will treat all reports seriously, investigate them promptly, and take appropriate action. Gardeners Chelsfield is committed to ensuring that no one who raises a concern in good faith suffers any form of retaliation or detrimental treatment as a result of speaking up.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

To support our zero-tolerance approach, we provide relevant members of our team with information and training on recognising signs of modern slavery and understanding how to report concerns. We aim to increase awareness throughout the business so that all colleagues understand the risks, our policies, and their responsibilities.

We review our processes and controls on an ongoing basis, seeking opportunities to strengthen supplier due diligence, enhance risk assessments, and improve communication with partners. We recognise that tackling modern slavery requires sustained effort and collaboration, and we remain committed to learning from best practice within our sector and beyond.

Annual Review of This Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the leadership of Gardeners Chelsfield to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and reflective of our ongoing commitments. As part of this review, we consider any incidents reported, outcomes of supplier audits, changes in legal requirements, and feedback from colleagues and stakeholders.

Following each annual review, we update the statement as necessary to capture improvements in our approach and to reinforce our expectations across the business and supply chain. By maintaining regular oversight at a senior level, we aim to ensure modern slavery risks are identified, addressed, and continuously reduced throughout our operations.