Gardeners Barnehurst Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement outlines the steps Gardeners Barnehurst takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically, with integrity and transparency, and to improving our practices on an ongoing basis to safeguard the rights and welfare of all workers connected to our activities.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Barnehurst adopts a strict zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, human trafficking, servitude, and child labour. This commitment applies to every aspect of our operations, from direct employees to agency staff, subcontractors, and suppliers. We expect everyone we work with to share this commitment and to uphold the same high standards of ethical conduct, human rights, and fair treatment.

Any confirmed instance of modern slavery linked to our business will be treated as a serious breach of our values and standards. We reserve the right to terminate relationships with any individual, contractor, or supplier found to be involved in practices that constitute modern slavery or that fail to take corrective action when concerns are raised.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Gardeners Barnehurst operates as a gardening and grounds maintenance business, providing services to residential, commercial, and community clients. Our supply chain includes providers of plants, soils, fertilizers, tools, machinery, protective equipment, and ancillary services such as transport, waste management, and seasonal labour.

We recognise that certain parts of the horticultural and wider facilities sector may present higher risks, especially where seasonal or low-paid labour is involved or where goods originate from regions with weaker labour protections. Our processes are designed to identify and address these potential risks in a proportionate and responsible manner.

Supplier Standards and Audit Measures

We require our key suppliers and contractors to demonstrate that they operate in accordance with all relevant labour, employment, and human rights legislation. As part of our due diligence, we assess new suppliers on their labour practices and ethical standards, and we prioritise working with businesses that can show a responsible approach to worker welfare.

Gardeners Barnehurst undertakes regular reviews and targeted audits of higher risk suppliers. These may include requesting information on recruitment processes, use of subcontractors, wage practices, identity documentation requirements, and workplace conditions. Where appropriate, we seek evidence of policies on modern slavery, codes of conduct, and training provided to staff.

If any non-compliance or area of concern is identified, we expect suppliers to cooperate with us in implementing corrective actions within an agreed timeframe. Failure to address legitimate concerns may result in suspension or termination of the commercial relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage all employees, workers, contractors, and suppliers to raise concerns about potential modern slavery or unethical labour practices without fear of retaliation. Concerns can be reported to a manager or senior member of the Gardeners Barnehurst team, or through any established internal reporting or whistleblowing processes in place within our business.

All reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. Where necessary, we will work with relevant agencies or authorities to address any credible suspicion of modern slavery. We are committed to maintaining confidentiality as far as possible and to protecting anyone who raises a concern in good faith.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Barnehurst aims to increase awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff and key suppliers. We communicate our expectations clearly and ensure that managers and supervisors understand how to recognise warning signs, respond to concerns, and escalate issues appropriately.

We are committed to reviewing and enhancing our procedures over time. This includes refining our supplier assessments, updating internal guidance, and learning from industry best practice and relevant legislation. Our goal is to embed respect for human rights and fair working conditions into everyday decision making and operations.

Annual Review of this Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually by the leadership of Gardeners Barnehurst to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with current legal requirements and best practice. As part of each review, we will evaluate the effectiveness of our actions, reflect on any incidents or concerns raised, and identify areas for improvement.

By maintaining a zero-tolerance stance, conducting supplier audits, providing accessible reporting channels, and committing to regular review, Gardeners Barnehurst seeks to play a responsible role in preventing modern slavery and protecting the dignity and rights of all workers connected to our business.