Modern Slavery Commitment at Gardeners East Dulwich

Gardeners East Dulwich is committed to conducting all aspects of our gardening and landscaping services in a responsible and ethical manner. We oppose all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, bonded labour, and child labour. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we are taking to prevent, identify, and address modern slavery risks within our own operations and our supply chains.

We recognise that modern slavery can occur in any sector and any geography. As a local business, we take seriously our responsibility to ensure that our procurement, recruitment, and day-to-day practices do not contribute to the exploitation of individuals and that we actively promote fair and safe working conditions.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

Gardeners East Dulwich operates a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with or support any organisation, individual, or practice that is connected with exploitation, coercion, or abuse of labour. Our expectation is that everyone who works with us, or supplies goods and services to us, shares this commitment.

All staff members are required to uphold the highest standards of integrity and respect for human rights. Any actions or omissions that are inconsistent with our zero-tolerance approach are treated as serious misconduct and may lead to disciplinary action, including termination of employment or the ending of commercial relationships.

Our Supply Chain and Supplier Standards

Our supply chain includes providers of plants, gardening materials, equipment, uniforms, and specialist services. We understand that risks of modern slavery can be higher in certain categories of goods and in more extended or international supply chains. We are working to identify and mitigate these risks by setting clear expectations for all suppliers and contractors.

Suppliers are expected to comply with all relevant labour, employment, and human rights legislation. They must ensure that work is freely chosen, that workers are of legal working age, and that employment terms are transparent and fair. We expect suppliers to provide safe working conditions, fair wages, reasonable working hours, and freedom of movement and association.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

Gardeners East Dulwich is developing and implementing proportional supplier due diligence and audit processes. Before entering into new supplier relationships, and when reviewing existing ones, we assess the nature of the goods or services, the geographical location, and any specific risk factors related to modern slavery and human trafficking.

Where we consider a supplier to be operating in a higher-risk area or category, we may request additional information, conduct on-site visits where appropriate, or require evidence of their own modern slavery policies and controls. If we become aware of credible concerns, we will investigate and, if necessary, suspend or terminate the relationship. Our aim is to work collaboratively with suppliers to improve standards, but we will not compromise on our zero-tolerance principles.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

Gardeners East Dulwich encourages all staff, suppliers, and any other stakeholders to speak up if they suspect that modern slavery or human trafficking may be occurring in our operations or supply chain. No individual will suffer any form of retaliation or disadvantage for raising a concern in good faith, even if it is later found to be unfounded.

Concerns can be raised verbally or in writing to management or an appointed senior representative. Reports may include observations of suspicious behaviour, information about recruitment practices, working conditions, or anything else that suggests coercion, exploitation, or abuse. All reports will be treated sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. We will investigate promptly and take appropriate remedial action when required.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities

Responsibility for our Modern Slavery Statement and related practices rests with the senior management of Gardeners East Dulwich. Managers are responsible for implementing this statement within their areas of control and for ensuring that staff understand the importance of identifying and reporting potential risks.

We are working to increase awareness of modern slavery indicators among our team through guidance, discussions, and incorporation of human rights considerations into our everyday procedures. Where relevant, staff involved in procurement and recruitment will receive more focused guidance to help them recognise signs of exploitation and evaluate supplier practices.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners East Dulwich recognises that tackling modern slavery requires ongoing effort and continual improvement. We monitor the effectiveness of our measures through periodic review of supplier performance, internal processes, and any concerns raised through our reporting channels. Lessons learned from any issues or investigations are used to strengthen our controls.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed and updated at least once every year to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, and the evolving nature of our business and supply chains. We are committed to enhancing our approach over time so that our services are delivered with full respect for the dignity and rights of every person involved.