Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners New Southgate

Gardeners New Southgate is committed to conducting all aspects of its business in a responsible and ethical manner. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out our approach to identifying, preventing, and addressing modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, contractors, temporary staff, and suppliers who work with or on behalf of Gardeners New Southgate.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

We have a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour in any form. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, organisation, or supplier involved in such practices. All staff are expected to act with integrity and to uphold this commitment in their day-to-day activities and decision-making.

Modern slavery is a serious violation of fundamental human rights. We recognise our responsibility to respect those rights and to ensure that our business activities do not contribute, directly or indirectly, to exploitation. Any breach of this policy by employees may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Any breach by suppliers may result in suspension or termination of our business relationship.

Our Supply Chain and Supplier Standards

Gardeners New Southgate works with a range of suppliers, including those providing plants, materials, equipment, and ancillary services. We are committed to working only with suppliers who share our values and demonstrate clear efforts to prevent modern slavery within their own operations and supply chains.

We expect all suppliers to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. Suppliers must ensure that work is freely chosen, that workers are of legal working age, that working conditions are safe, and that wages meet or exceed applicable legal standards. We also expect suppliers to ensure that their own subcontractors meet equivalent standards.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

To support the implementation of our zero-tolerance policy, we conduct proportionate due diligence and, where appropriate, audits of key suppliers. This may include reviewing policies, requesting supporting documentation, and seeking assurances on labour practices. In higher-risk categories or geographies, we may take additional steps to verify compliance and monitor ongoing performance.

Where non-compliance is identified, we will work with the supplier to agree corrective actions and a clear timeframe for improvement. If meaningful progress is not made, we reserve the right to review, suspend, or terminate the business relationship. Our aim is both to protect people from harm and to encourage continuous improvement in labour standards across our supply chains.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

Gardeners New Southgate encourages all employees, contractors, and suppliers to speak up if they suspect or become aware of any instance of modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business or supply chains. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting channels, including to line managers, senior management, or designated compliance contacts within the organisation.

Reports may be made confidentially, and we will treat all concerns seriously and sensitively. We will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. All reports will be assessed promptly, and where appropriate we will investigate and take necessary action, which may include notifying relevant authorities.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff and, where necessary, providing training to those in roles with higher exposure to supply chain decision-making. This enables our people to recognise warning signs, understand reporting routes, and support the implementation of this Statement.

We also keep our internal procedures under review and look for opportunities to strengthen our controls, enhance supplier engagement, and respond to evolving best practice and legal requirements. Our goal is continual improvement in the way we identify and manage modern slavery risks.

Review and Approval of This Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and aligned with applicable legislation and guidance. As part of the annual review, we assess any incidents reported, the effectiveness of our due diligence and audit processes, and any emerging risks in our operations or supply chains.

The updated Statement is approved by the leadership of Gardeners New Southgate and made available to employees, suppliers, and other interested parties. By maintaining a clear, consistent, and regularly reviewed approach, we aim to contribute to the wider effort to eradicate modern slavery and to uphold the dignity and rights of all individuals who contribute to our business.