Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Riddlesdown Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Gardeners Riddlesdown in respect of our most recent financial year. It outlines the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and exploitation within our business operations and supply chains.

Gardeners Riddlesdown provides gardening and related services and works with a range of suppliers for materials, equipment, transport and subcontracted services. We recognise that modern slavery can occur in any sector and at any level of the supply chain, and we are committed to identifying, mitigating and eliminating these risks.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Riddlesdown operates a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not tolerate any practices that are inconsistent with basic human rights, including forced labour, bonded labour, servitude, child labour, or any form of exploitation.

This commitment applies to all people who work for or with Gardeners Riddlesdown, irrespective of their location, employment status or role. All employees, directors, agency workers, contractors and suppliers are expected to uphold this standard. Where we identify non-compliance or credible concerns, we will act promptly, which may include terminating relationships or reporting issues to relevant authorities.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Standards

Our supply chains include providers of plants, soil and landscaping materials, tools and machinery, protective clothing, transport, waste management and occasional subcontracted labour. Gardeners Riddlesdown seeks to work only with suppliers and partners who share our commitment to ethical and responsible business practices.

We are strengthening our supplier standards to make clear that compliance with applicable labour, employment and human rights laws is a condition of doing business with us. We expect suppliers to maintain proper employment records, pay lawful wages, provide safe working conditions, and ensure that work is freely chosen.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

Gardeners Riddlesdown is developing and implementing a risk-based due diligence and audit approach to identify and address potential modern slavery risks in our supply chains. This includes initial assessments when selecting new suppliers and periodic reviews of existing suppliers.

Where we consider suppliers to be higher risk because of their sector, location or the nature of the work, we may conduct more detailed checks, including requests for evidence of labour practices and site visits where appropriate. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to demonstrate adequate safeguards against modern slavery, we will review the relationship and may decide to discontinue it.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Riddlesdown encourages anyone who has concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to our business to raise them without fear of reprisal. Concerns may be raised internally with managers or senior leadership, or through any established whistleblowing or grievance channels.

All allegations and concerns raised with us will be taken seriously, reviewed promptly and, where appropriate, investigated. We are committed to protecting anyone who raises concerns in good faith. We will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who speak up.

Training, Awareness and Responsibilities

Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery commitments sits with the management team of Gardeners Riddlesdown. Managers are expected to promote ethical conduct and ensure that our policies are implemented within their areas of control.

We are working to raise awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement and supplier management. Training and guidance will focus on recognising warning signs, following appropriate due diligence processes and knowing how to respond if concerns arise.

Monitoring, Governance and Annual Review

Gardeners Riddlesdown is committed to continuous improvement in the prevention of modern slavery. We will monitor the effectiveness of our actions through regular review of supplier performance, feedback from staff and stakeholders, and any issues reported through our channels.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement will be reviewed at least once every financial year and updated as necessary to reflect changes in our business, our supply chains, relevant legislation and best practice. The updated statement will be approved by the appropriate level of management and made available to our stakeholders.

By publishing this statement, Gardeners Riddlesdown reaffirms its commitment to conducting business ethically, treating people with dignity and respect, and playing an active role in the elimination of modern slavery and human trafficking.