Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Chiswick Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Gardeners Chiswick in respect of the financial year ending 31 December and sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our own operations and throughout our supply chains. Gardeners Chiswick is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and in full compliance with applicable laws relating to labour, human rights, and modern slavery.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Chiswick has a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. We are committed to respecting the rights and dignity of every individual who contributes to our services, whether directly employed by us or engaged through our suppliers and contractors.

All employees, managers, and contractors are required to act with integrity and to uphold this policy at all times. Any involvement in, or facilitation of, modern slavery or human trafficking is strictly prohibited and may lead to disciplinary action, termination of contracts, and reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners Chiswick provides gardening and related services primarily within the local community and surrounding areas. Our workforce includes directly employed staff and self-employed contractors. Our supply chains mainly involve the sourcing of plants, gardening products, tools, equipment, protective clothing, and related services.

We recognise that certain parts of our supply chain, particularly where goods may originate from higher-risk regions or industries, may present an elevated risk of modern slavery. We are committed to taking proportionate and meaningful steps to identify, assess, and address these risks.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers, subcontractors, and business partners to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. Gardeners Chiswick is implementing supplier standards that require suppliers to confirm that they comply with applicable labour and human rights legislation, that they prohibit forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, and that they do not use child labour or exploitative working practices.

To support these standards, we carry out due diligence on new suppliers and review existing suppliers periodically. This due diligence may include risk assessments, reviewing supplier policies, requesting written confirmations of compliance, and where appropriate, conducting audits or inspections either directly or through trusted third parties. If we identify non-compliance or credible concerns, we will work with suppliers to improve their practices or, where necessary, terminate the relationship.

Internal Policies, Training, and Awareness

Gardeners Chiswick maintains internal policies on ethical conduct, recruitment, and workplace practices that support our efforts to combat modern slavery. Recruitment is carried out through reputable channels, and we take steps to ensure that all employees and contractors have the legal right to work and are engaged under fair terms and conditions.

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery among our staff. Managers and relevant team members are informed about the indicators of modern slavery, the importance of ethical supply chain management, and the steps to take if concerns arise.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Chiswick encourages all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to speak up if they have any concerns or suspicions about modern slavery or unethical labour practices in our business or supply chains. Concerns can be raised directly with management or through established internal reporting channels.

We will treat all reports seriously, investigate them promptly, and, where appropriate, take corrective action. We will not tolerate any victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. Confidentiality will be respected as far as practicable during any investigation.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. Gardeners Chiswick is committed to continuously improving our processes, due diligence, and training to strengthen our defences against modern slavery risks.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least annually to reflect changes in our operations, supply chains, and legal requirements, and to ensure that our approach remains effective and proportionate. Where necessary, we will update our policies, procedures, and supplier expectations to address emerging risks and best practice guidance.

This statement has been approved on behalf of Gardeners Chiswick and represents our current position and ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our business.