Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Blackfen

Gardeners Blackfen is committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the principles and actions that guide our approach to preventing slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation across our operations and supply chain. We recognise that zero tolerance is essential, and we expect the same commitment from everyone who supports our work.

Our business values are rooted in lawful, ethical, and responsible practice. Whether work is carried out by permanent staff, seasonal workers, contractors, or suppliers, we apply the same standard: no person should be subjected to coercion, deceit, or exploitation. Modern slavery has no place in our organisation, and we take proactive steps to reduce risk wherever it may arise.

As part of our commitment, we maintain a clear policy framework covering recruitment, workforce management, and procurement. This includes checks designed to identify vulnerable practices and ensure that all employment is voluntary, fairly paid, and appropriately documented. Gardeners Blackfen expects every individual involved in service delivery to uphold these standards.

Supplier oversight is central to our approach. We carry out supplier audits and periodic reviews to assess labour practices, documentation, and compliance with ethical expectations. Where appropriate, we ask suppliers to confirm that they have their own anti-slavery controls in place, including right-to-work verification, lawful wage practices, and safe working conditions. Any sign of non-compliance is investigated promptly.

We also apply due diligence before entering into new supplier relationships. Risk assessment considers the nature of the goods or services, country of origin, labour intensity, and subcontracting arrangements. If a higher-risk area is identified, additional scrutiny is applied. This may include enhanced audits, contract clauses, or requests for corrective action plans to ensure that Gardeners Blackfen’s standards are maintained.

Training and awareness are important in ensuring our modern slavery controls remain effective. Managers and relevant team members are encouraged to recognise indicators of exploitation, such as restricted movement, withholding of identity documents, unclear pay arrangements, or signs of intimidation. By strengthening awareness, we improve our ability to respond early and responsibly.

We provide clear reporting channels so that concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation. Any suspected instance of exploitation, unethical labour practice, or supply chain abuse can be reported through internal management routes and treated seriously and confidentially. Reports are reviewed promptly, and appropriate action is taken based on the findings. Speaking up early is encouraged so that potential harm can be addressed before it escalates.

If concerns involve a supplier, contractor, or subcontracted party, the matter is escalated for review and may lead to immediate corrective action, suspension of work, or termination of the relationship where warranted. We are committed to responsible remediation and will work to protect affected individuals wherever possible. Our aim is not only compliance, but meaningful prevention.

Annual review is a key part of this statement. Gardeners Blackfen will review its modern slavery controls at least once every year to confirm they remain effective and proportionate to the risks in our business. This review considers changes in law, supply chain structure, procurement activity, and operational practices. Lessons learned from audits, incidents, and internal checks are used to strengthen future controls.

This statement reflects our ongoing commitment to ethical conduct and continuous improvement. Gardeners Blackfen will continue to promote fair treatment, transparent working practices, and responsible sourcing across all areas of activity. By applying robust oversight, maintaining a zero-tolerance policy, and supporting accountability throughout our supply chain, we aim to help prevent modern slavery in all its forms.