Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Plumstead Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Gardeners Plumstead in respect of our financial year and sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our own operations and across our supply chains. Gardeners Plumstead is committed to conducting business ethically and responsibly, and to respecting the rights and dignity of every person who contributes to our services.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Plumstead has a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking. We will not knowingly work with any organisation or individual that engages in, or is linked to, such practices. This commitment applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers involved in the provision of goods and services to Gardeners Plumstead.

We are committed to acting with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships. Our policies and working practices are designed to ensure that employment is freely chosen, wages are paid fairly and on time, and working hours are reasonable and compliant with applicable laws and regulations.

Our People and Working Practices

We strive to create a working environment where everyone is treated with respect and where exploitation is not tolerated. Recruitment processes are designed to verify the identity and right to work of all employees and to ensure that no worker is charged recruitment fees or subjected to unfair deductions.

We provide information on rights at work to our staff and emphasise that any concerns, including those related to modern slavery, can be raised without fear of retaliation. We expect managers to remain alert to the signs of potential exploitation and to act promptly if any concerns arise.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Gardeners Plumstead recognises that the risk of modern slavery can be more prominent within complex supply chains. We therefore require our suppliers, subcontractors, and other business partners to uphold similar standards of ethical conduct and to comply with all relevant labour and human rights legislation.

We conduct proportionate due diligence on existing and new suppliers, which may include requesting information on their labour practices, policies, and training. Where appropriate, we undertake site visits or request evidence of compliance, such as policy documentation or third-party audit reports.

If we identify a heightened risk in a particular supplier or category of goods or services, we will apply enhanced checks and may conduct targeted audits. Failure by a supplier to meet our standards, or to take corrective action where issues are identified, may result in the review, suspension, or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Speaking Up

Gardeners Plumstead encourages all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers to report any concerns they may have regarding modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to our business or supply chains.

Concerns can be raised internally through line managers or senior management. We are committed to handling all reports sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. No person raising a concern in good faith will suffer detrimental treatment for doing so. All reports will be taken seriously, assessed promptly, and, where necessary, investigated and addressed without delay.

Training and Awareness

We aim to raise awareness among key staff about the risks of modern slavery and how to recognise potential warning signs. Training and guidance are provided, where relevant, to those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management so that they understand their responsibilities and the procedures for escalating concerns.

Monitoring, Annual Review, and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Plumstead is committed to continuous improvement in our approach to identifying and addressing the risk of modern slavery. We monitor the effectiveness of the actions we take and seek opportunities to strengthen our policies, processes, and supplier engagement.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually by the leadership of Gardeners Plumstead to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and reflective of our current practices and risk profile. Any necessary updates or improvements identified during the review will be implemented, and the updated statement will be made available.

By maintaining a clear zero-tolerance stance, engaging with our suppliers, and encouraging open reporting, Gardeners Plumstead seeks to play its part in the wider effort to eradicate modern slavery in all its forms.