Gardeners Surrey Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
Gardeners Surrey is committed to conducting business with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement outlines the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our own operations and within our supply chains. It is made in respect of the financial year to demonstrate our ongoing commitment to ethical and responsible practices.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Gardeners Surrey has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. We do not knowingly engage with, support, or procure from any organisation involved in such practices. We expect the same high standards from all our suppliers, contractors, and business partners and require them to act ethically and with integrity in all their dealings.
Our zero-tolerance stance is communicated throughout the business, from management to operational teams, and forms part of our overall approach to corporate responsibility and ethical conduct. Any suspected breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter that may result in the termination of relationships with individuals or organisations involved.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Gardeners Surrey provides gardening, landscaping, and related services across Surrey and surrounding areas. Our operations rely on a range of suppliers and subcontractors for materials, equipment, plants, and specialist services. We recognise that certain areas of the horticulture and construction-related sectors can present a higher risk of labour exploitation, particularly where temporary, seasonal, or migrant labour is used.
We are committed to working only with suppliers and partners who share our values and who can demonstrate that they operate in compliance with all relevant labour, employment, and human rights legislation.
Supplier Audits and Due Diligence
To manage the risk of modern slavery in our supply chains, Gardeners Surrey undertakes proportionate supplier due diligence and audit activities. New suppliers are assessed based on their reputation, compliance history, and their own policies on modern slavery and human rights. Where appropriate, we request information on their labour practices, recruitment methods, and use of subcontractors.
We conduct periodic reviews and, where necessary, audits of selected suppliers to verify that they meet our ethical standards. These audits may include reviewing documentation, checking labour records where available, and discussing working practices with management. If we identify non-compliance, we work with the supplier to implement corrective actions within a clear timeframe. Persistent or serious failures to meet our standards may result in the ending of the business relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Gardeners Surrey encourages an open culture where concerns about malpractice, including any suspicion of modern slavery or human trafficking, can be raised without fear of retaliation. Employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report concerns through established internal reporting channels, such as raising issues with line managers or designated senior management representatives.
All reports are taken seriously and will be investigated promptly and confidentially as far as is reasonably possible. We are committed to protecting anyone who raises a concern in good faith from detrimental treatment or victimisation. Where appropriate, concerns may also be reported to relevant external authorities in line with legal and regulatory obligations.
Training and Awareness
We recognise that raising awareness is an important part of preventing modern slavery. Gardeners Surrey provides guidance to managers and key staff to help them recognise indicators of labour exploitation and understand how to respond to concerns. We aim to embed respect for human rights within our culture, decision-making, and everyday working practices.
Monitoring, Governance and Annual Review
The management team at Gardeners Surrey is responsible for overseeing the effectiveness of our approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We monitor compliance with this Statement and regularly review our processes to identify opportunities for improvement.
This Statement is reviewed at least annually to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. As part of the annual review, we assess any reported incidents, audit findings, changes in our supply chain, and feedback from stakeholders. Where necessary, we update our policies, training, and due diligence procedures to strengthen our overall response to the risk of modern slavery.
By publishing this Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement, Gardeners Surrey reaffirms its commitment to ethical business conduct and to playing its part in the global effort to eradicate modern slavery in all its forms.
