Gardeners Wimbledon Modern Slavery Commitment
Gardeners Wimbledon is committed to conducting all aspects of its business in an ethical and responsible manner. We recognise our responsibility to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. This statement sets out the actions we take to identify, prevent, and address the risks of modern slavery and human trafficking.
Modern slavery is a serious violation of fundamental human rights. It includes slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour, and human trafficking. Gardeners Wimbledon opposes all forms of modern slavery and expects the same high standards from everyone we work with.
Zero-Tolerance Policy
We operate a zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. This policy applies to all people working for or on behalf of Gardeners Wimbledon, including employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers.
We are committed to ensuring that our workplace is free from exploitation and that all workers are treated with dignity and respect. Any indication that modern slavery may be occurring within our business or supply chain will be investigated promptly and thoroughly. Where appropriate, we will terminate relationships with any party that is found to be involved in modern slavery or is unwilling to take adequate steps to prevent it.
Our Supply Chains
Our supply chains include providers of plants, materials, tools, equipment, uniforms, transport, and subcontracted services that support our gardening and landscaping operations. We aim to work only with reputable suppliers who share our values and can demonstrate compliance with applicable labour and human rights laws.
All new suppliers are assessed on their ability to meet our ethical standards. We communicate our expectations clearly and require suppliers to comply with all laws relating to employment, labour standards, and modern slavery.
Supplier Audits and Due Diligence
We conduct proportionate risk-based due diligence on our suppliers. This may include requesting information about labour practices, recruitment methods, use of subcontractors, and confirmation that workers are employed voluntarily and on fair terms.
Where we identify higher-risk suppliers or sectors, we may carry out additional checks or require further assurances. This can involve on-site visits, document reviews, or formal declarations of compliance with our modern slavery standards. If concerns are identified, we work with the supplier to implement corrective actions within clear timeframes. Failure to address issues adequately may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Training and Awareness
We promote awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management. Employees are made aware of the signs of exploitation, the importance of ethical sourcing, and the procedures for escalating any concerns.
We encourage a culture where ethical conduct is expected and supported. Managers are responsible for reinforcing these values and ensuring that modern slavery considerations are incorporated into day-to-day decision-making.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Gardeners Wimbledon encourages anyone with concerns about potential modern slavery or unethical labour practices to speak up without fear of retaliation. Concerns may relate to our own operations or to any third party connected with our business.
Staff can raise issues with their manager or senior management, or through any other internal channel made available for reporting concerns. We also welcome information from suppliers, workers in our supply chain, and members of the public. All reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and, where possible, kept confidential. We will investigate each report and take appropriate action, which may include notifying relevant authorities.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility, and we are committed to continuous improvement. We regularly review our policies, procedures, and supplier oversight processes to ensure they remain effective and proportionate to the risks we face.
This modern slavery statement will be reviewed at least once every year by Gardeners Wimbledon senior management. The review will consider changes in our operations, feedback from stakeholders, the results of supplier audits, and any reported incidents. Where necessary, we will update our actions and controls to strengthen our ability to prevent and respond to modern slavery within our business and supply chains.
This statement reflects the commitment of Gardeners Wimbledon to uphold the highest ethical standards and to play our part in eliminating modern slavery in all its forms.
