Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Brent

Gardeners Brent is committed to conducting business in a responsible, ethical, and transparent manner. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, workers, contractors, agency staff, and suppliers associated with Gardeners Brent.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

We have a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, human trafficking, child labour, and all practices that exploit vulnerable people. Modern slavery is a serious violation of fundamental human rights and is entirely incompatible with our values as a business.

Gardeners Brent expects everyone working with or for us to uphold this commitment. We will not knowingly work with any individual, organisation, or supplier that breaches, or is suspected of breaching, modern slavery or human trafficking laws. Where concerns are raised, we will act promptly and decisively, including suspending or terminating relationships where appropriate.

Our Supply Chain Standards

Our supply chain includes providers of horticultural products, landscaping materials, tools, equipment, transport, and support services. We are committed to working only with suppliers who share our values and who can demonstrate that they operate ethically and lawfully.

All new suppliers are assessed against our ethical standards, which include clear expectations regarding labour rights, working conditions, wages, and freedom of movement and association. Existing suppliers are required to maintain these standards and to notify us immediately of any suspected breaches or material changes in their own supply chains.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

To support our zero-tolerance stance, Gardeners Brent applies a risk-based approach to supplier audits and due diligence. Higher-risk suppliers or regions may be subject to enhanced scrutiny, which can include site visits, document reviews, and structured discussions on labour practices.

As part of our due diligence process, we may request evidence such as policies on modern slavery, employee contracts, proof of age documentation procedures, and records of working hours and wages. Where non-compliance or areas of concern are identified, we will work collaboratively with the supplier to develop corrective action plans with clear timelines. If adequate remediation is not achieved, we reserve the right to end the business relationship.

Training and Awareness

We recognise that awareness and understanding are essential for preventing modern slavery. Gardeners Brent provides appropriate information and guidance to managers and relevant staff to help them identify potential warning signs and understand how to respond to concerns. This includes raising awareness of risk factors such as recruitment practices, third-party labour providers, and vulnerable worker groups.

We encourage a culture where ethical behaviour and respect for human rights are integral to everyday decision-making. Staff are reminded that everyone has a role to play in identifying and preventing exploitation.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Brent encourages anyone with concerns about modern slavery or human trafficking in our business or supply chains to report them without delay. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting channels, via line managers, senior management, or our established whistleblowing procedures.

Reports can be made confidentially, and we do not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. All reports will be taken seriously, reviewed promptly, and, where appropriate, investigated thoroughly. We will take appropriate remedial and protective actions in response to any substantiated concerns.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Gardeners Brent is committed to continually improving our approach to tackling modern slavery. We regularly review our policies, procedures, and supplier monitoring activities to ensure they remain effective and reflect evolving best practice and legal requirements.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed and updated annually by senior management. The review process assesses the effectiveness of our actions over the previous year, evaluates any incidents or concerns raised, and identifies further steps to strengthen our controls. By maintaining this cycle of review and improvement, we aim to minimise risks of modern slavery within our operations and supply chains.

This Statement has been approved by the management of Gardeners Brent and represents our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our business.