Gardeners Morden Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made on behalf of Gardeners Morden and sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. Gardeners Morden is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our relationships, and to implementing effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery does not occur in any part of our organisation.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Morden has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, servitude, and child labour. We expect the same high standards from all of our employees, temporary workers, contractors, suppliers, and business partners. Any form of abuse, exploitation, or coercion is incompatible with our values and will not be accepted under any circumstances.

All individuals working for or with Gardeners Morden are required to conduct business in a manner that respects human rights and upholds the dignity and wellbeing of every person. Where we identify or reasonably suspect modern slavery, we will act promptly to address the situation, including working with relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Gardeners Morden provides gardening, landscaping, and related services. Our supply chain includes the sourcing of plants, materials, tools, equipment, uniforms, and various support services. We recognise that modern slavery risks may arise at different stages of these supply chains, particularly where goods are produced or services are delivered in higher risk sectors or regions.

We are committed to understanding these risks and taking proportionate action to mitigate them. This includes maintaining visibility over our key suppliers and encouraging transparency throughout the supply chain.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect our suppliers and contractors to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. Suppliers are required to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws, and to ensure that their own supply chains are free from forced or trafficked labour.

Gardeners Morden conducts supplier due diligence to assess the risk of modern slavery. This includes evaluating suppliers on their labour practices, use of subcontractors, and alignment with our ethical standards. Where appropriate, we carry out supplier audits, which may involve site visits, document reviews, and discussions with management and, where possible, workers.

If a supplier is found to be involved in modern slavery, or fails to meet our expectations and refuses to improve, we will take appropriate action. This may include requiring corrective measures, suspending work, or terminating the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Morden encourages anyone with concerns about modern slavery in our business or supply chains to report them without delay. Concerns can be raised internally through management or in line with our whistleblowing procedures. Reports may be made confidentially, and, where possible, we will seek to protect the identity of individuals who raise concerns in good faith.

All reports of suspected modern slavery will be taken seriously and investigated promptly. We will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who speak up about concerns, and we are committed to creating an environment in which people feel safe to report issues.

Training and Awareness

We recognise that raising awareness is essential to identifying and preventing modern slavery. Gardeners Morden provides relevant training and guidance for staff whose roles involve managing suppliers, recruiting workers, or overseeing operations where there may be an elevated risk of exploitation.

Training covers how to recognise indicators of modern slavery, how to respond to concerns, and how to escalate matters appropriately. We also communicate our zero-tolerance policy and expectations to suppliers and contractors.

Monitoring, Accountability, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with Gardeners Morden senior management. They are accountable for ensuring that appropriate policies, procedures, and controls are in place and that these are effectively implemented in day-to-day operations.

This Modern Slavery Statement, along with our related policies and processes, will be reviewed at least annually. The review will consider changes in our business, emerging risks in our supply chains, findings from audits, feedback from stakeholders, and developments in legal and best practice standards.

Where areas for improvement are identified, we will update our procedures and take additional action as needed to strengthen our defences against modern slavery. Gardeners Morden is committed to continual improvement in this area and to working collaboratively with our people, suppliers, and partners to help eradicate modern slavery in all its forms.