Gardeners Hatch End Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Hatch End publishes this Modern Slavery Statement to affirm our commitment to preventing forced labour, human trafficking and exploitation across our operations and supply chains. We adopt a zero-tolerance policy toward modern slavery and are committed to embedding anti-slavery principles into our daily activities. This anti-slavery statement sets out our approach to risk, due diligence and remediation.

As part of our broader Modern Slavery policy, the company name appears on contractual documentation and procurement policies to emphasise that exploitation will not be tolerated. We expect all colleagues, contractors and partners to follow the standards set out in this slavery and human trafficking statement. Our board reviews the risks and the measures we employ to mitigate them as part of governance responsibilities.

Scope and responsibilities

This modern slavery statement for Gardeners Hatch End covers all employees, temporary workers and key third-party suppliers. The senior management team leads on compliance and is supported by procurement and HR. Responsibilities include regular risk assessments, supplier engagement, and ensuring recruitment processes meet our human rights expectations. We report on progress and maintain transparent records to demonstrate accountability.

Zero-tolerance approach

Our zero-tolerance policy means that any identified instance of forced labour, debt bondage or coercion will result in immediate action, which may include termination of contracts and referral to the appropriate authorities. Gardeners Hatch End enforces clear contractual clauses prohibiting modern slavery, with remedies and exit strategies if suppliers fail to comply. We require evidence of lawful, voluntary employment throughout our value chain.

We maintain worker-facing information so staff know their rights and the procedures that exist to protect them. We provide training and awareness sessions to procurement teams and line managers to help identify signs of exploitation. These measures are part of our commitment to continuous improvement in our anti-slavery statement implementation.

Due diligence and supplier audits are central to how we manage risk. We conduct initial risk-screening for new suppliers and regular audits for those in high-risk categories. Audits include documentation checks, interviews and on-site inspections where appropriate. The supplier audit programme is risk-based and focuses on labour practices, subcontracting, payroll and recruitment intermediaries.

Our procurement contracts require suppliers to adhere to labour standards and to permit audits. When audits identify non-compliance we expect corrective action plans with timebound milestones. Persistent or serious breaches trigger escalation, remedial measures or contract termination. We also collaborate with industry partners to share best practices and to strengthen sector-wide responses to modern slavery.

Gardeners Hatch End operates clear reporting channels to ensure concerns can be raised safely and confidentially. Employees and third parties are encouraged to use internal reporting tools or speak to a designated compliance officer. There is a formal whistleblowing process that protects reporters from retaliation. Policies stress that raising concerns is a responsibility and supports our ethical procurement approach.

• Reporting channels: confidential internal channels and an anonymised escalation route;
• Remediation: worker-centred remediation and cooperation with authorities where necessary;
• Transparency: public reporting and supplier disclosure expectations.

We commit to an annual review of this policy and published modern slavery statement to ensure it remains effective and responsive to emerging risks. The review includes assessment of audit outcomes, remediation cases and feedback from stakeholders. Findings inform training, procurement changes and any required amendments to contractual terms. This annual review cycle supports continual enhancement of our anti-slavery measures.

Gardeners Hatch End recognises that combating modern slavery requires vigilance, resources and collaboration. We will continue to invest in supplier audits, staff training and robust reporting channels. By combining procurement controls, sound governance and remedial practices we aim to reduce the risk of exploitation across our operations and supply chain.

This slavery and human trafficking statement represents our ongoing commitment to ethical business conduct. We will update our modern slavery policy and public statement annually, and where necessary, take immediate action to protect workers and uphold our zero-tolerance stance. The leadership team remains accountable for implementation and for ensuring Gardeners Hatch End promotes dignity and lawful treatment for all workers.