Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Eltham

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Eltham takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting business ethically, transparently, and in full respect of human rights, and we recognise our responsibility to identify, prevent, and address modern slavery risks wherever they may arise.

Our Commitment to Preventing Modern Slavery

Gardeners Eltham has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, and child labour. We are committed to ensuring that our business activities do not contribute to these abuses and that the people who work for us, directly or indirectly, are treated fairly, with dignity and respect.

This commitment applies to all aspects of our operations, including recruitment, employment practices, subcontracting, and the sourcing of goods, equipment, and services used in the delivery of our gardening and landscaping services.

Our Supply Chain and Supplier Expectations

Our supply chain includes suppliers of plants, gardening materials, tools, equipment, uniforms, and various support services. We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to uphold the same high standards that we apply to our own business.

We require suppliers to comply with all applicable labour, human rights, and health and safety laws. We expect them to ensure that workers are employed voluntarily, paid fairly, work in safe conditions, and are not subject to coercion, exploitation, or abuse. Where appropriate, we communicate our zero-tolerance stance and ethical expectations directly to suppliers as part of our onboarding and ongoing relationships.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Eltham will not knowingly work with any organisation involved in or connected to modern slavery or human trafficking. If we identify a credible risk or instance of modern slavery in our operations or supply chain, we will take immediate and decisive action, which may include suspending or terminating relationships, reporting concerns to relevant authorities, and supporting remediation efforts for affected workers.

All managers and those involved in purchasing and supplier management are responsible for applying this policy and escalating any concerns. Breaches of this policy by employees may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

We apply a risk-based approach to supplier audits and due diligence. For higher-risk categories of goods or services, or where suppliers operate in regions with known human rights concerns, we may conduct checks to assess labour practices, working conditions, and compliance with our standards.

Due diligence measures may include requesting information on employment practices, reviewing relevant policies, and seeking assurance that suppliers have their own modern slavery controls. Where concerns are identified, we will engage with suppliers to seek improvements and may conduct follow-up reviews to monitor progress.

Reporting Channels and Raising Concerns

Gardeners Eltham encourages all employees, contractors, and suppliers to report any concerns related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns may include suspected exploitation, unsafe or degrading working conditions, withholding of wages or identity documents, or any other indicators of forced or trafficked labour.

Reports can be made through internal reporting channels to management or designated senior staff. Reports may be made in confidence, and we will handle all concerns sensitively and, where possible, anonymously. We will not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to building awareness of modern slavery risks within Gardeners Eltham. Where appropriate, employees involved in recruitment, supplier selection, and site management are given guidance on recognising signs of exploitation and the steps to take if they have concerns.

We seek to foster a culture in which ethical conduct and respect for human rights are integral to how we work, and where employees feel empowered to speak up if something appears wrong.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. As part of the review, we assess the effectiveness of our controls, supplier oversight, and reporting mechanisms, and identify opportunities for improvement.

Gardeners Eltham is committed to continuously strengthening our approach to preventing modern slavery. We will update our procedures and practices as needed to respond to emerging risks, regulatory changes, and lessons learned from our own experience and that of the wider industry.

This Statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Eltham and represents our ongoing commitment to ethical, responsible, and transparent business operations.