Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Bow to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. Gardeners Bow provides gardening and related services and recognises its responsibility to act ethically and with integrity in all business relationships.
We are committed to continually improving our practices to combat modern slavery in all its forms, ensuring that our activities do not contribute to the abuse of human rights.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
Gardeners Bow operates a clear zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not accept any form of forced, bonded, or compulsory labour, servitude, or trafficking in our business or among our suppliers and contractors.
All employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to uphold this commitment. Any breach or suspected breach of this policy is treated with the utmost seriousness and may result in termination of employment or commercial relationships, as well as notification to the relevant authorities where appropriate.
Our Supply Chain and Supplier Expectations
Our supply chain includes providers of plants, tools, equipment, protective clothing, logistics, and professional services. We understand that risks of modern slavery can arise at various stages of production, particularly where there is low-skilled, seasonal, or migrant labour.
We require our suppliers to act ethically, comply with all applicable labour laws, and demonstrate respect for human rights. As part of our onboarding process, suppliers must confirm that they do not engage in, or tolerate, modern slavery or human trafficking in any part of their business.
Supplier Audits and Due Diligence
Gardeners Bow is strengthening its due diligence processes to identify, assess, and address potential modern slavery risks in our supply chain. This includes proportionate audits and checks, with a focus on higher-risk categories of goods and services.
Our approach to supplier audits includes, where appropriate, reviewing supplier policies and codes of conduct, requesting information on labour practices and working conditions, and engaging directly with suppliers to understand how they manage modern slavery risks. Where concerns are identified, we will work collaboratively with suppliers to improve standards. If issues cannot be resolved to our satisfaction, we may suspend or end the relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Gardeners Bow encourages all employees, workers, contractors, and suppliers to speak up if they have concerns about any potential instance of modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business or supply chain.
Concerns can be raised through internal reporting channels, including direct reporting to line managers, senior management, or designated company contacts responsible for ethics and compliance. Reports may be made confidentially, and we do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith.
All reports will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and addressed appropriately. Where necessary, we will cooperate with law enforcement agencies and other relevant bodies.
Training and Awareness
To embed our zero-tolerance stance, Gardeners Bow is committed to raising awareness of modern slavery and human trafficking among our employees and key suppliers. Training is provided to relevant staff on recognising indicators of exploitation, understanding our policies, and knowing how to escalate concerns.
We also communicate our expectations to suppliers, contractors, and business partners so that they understand their role in supporting our commitment to ethical and lawful labour practices.
Monitoring and Annual Review
Gardeners Bow recognises that combating modern slavery requires ongoing vigilance and improvement. We regularly review our policies, procedures, and supplier controls to ensure they remain effective and proportionate to the risks we face.
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement will be reviewed at least annually by the senior management team. The review will consider any incidents reported, developments in legislation and best practice, and feedback from stakeholders. Where necessary, we will update our approach and implement new measures to strengthen our response.
This statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Bow and reflects our continuing commitment to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains.
