Gardeners New Barnet Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions taken by Gardeners New Barnet to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold and promote human rights and decent working conditions in all areas of our business and expect the same from all those with whom we work.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners New Barnet has a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, child labour and all forms of exploitation. We are committed to conducting our business in a manner that respects the dignity and rights of every person involved in our activities, whether they are directly employed by us or work within our wider supply chain.

All employees, contractors and suppliers are required to act in accordance with our values and with applicable labour, employment and human rights laws. Any form of complicity in modern slavery or human trafficking is strictly prohibited and may result in termination of employment or business relationships.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners New Barnet provides gardening and grounds maintenance services, using a range of tools, equipment, plants, materials and associated services sourced from external suppliers. Our supply chain includes wholesalers, nurseries, equipment providers and subcontracted labour for specialist tasks.

We acknowledge that the risk of modern slavery may exist at different tiers of our supply chain, particularly in sectors involving seasonal or low-paid work. We are committed to identifying and addressing these risks through proportionate and ongoing due diligence.

Supplier Standards and Audit Processes

We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. As part of our supplier approval and review processes, we seek to ensure that:

Suppliers confirm compliance with all relevant labour and human rights legislation and confirm that they do not use forced, bonded or involuntary labour. Suppliers agree not to employ workers below the minimum legal working age and to ensure that work is voluntary, fairly paid and freely chosen. Suppliers understand that Gardeners New Barnet will not tolerate any form of exploitation and that serious breaches may lead to the termination of contracts.

Where appropriate, we conduct audits or request evidence regarding labour practices, such as policies on recruitment, working hours, pay and worker welfare. We may also request information on suppliers’ own due diligence in respect of their subcontractors and labour providers. If any concerns are identified, we will work with suppliers to agree corrective actions or, where necessary, end the relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

Gardeners New Barnet encourages all workers, suppliers and other stakeholders to report any concerns related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Reports may include suspected exploitation, unsafe or inhumane working conditions, withholding of documents, or any indication that a person is being controlled or coerced.

We maintain internal reporting channels that enable employees to raise concerns directly and confidentially with management. Suppliers and other third parties are urged to raise issues through their usual contact at Gardeners New Barnet or through alternative senior contacts where appropriate. All reports will be taken seriously and investigated promptly, and we will not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith.

Training and Awareness

We seek to promote awareness of modern slavery risks among our management and relevant staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement and supplier management. Training and guidance may cover recognising indicators of modern slavery, understanding our policies and knowing how to respond to and report concerns.

Monitoring, Governance and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with senior management at Gardeners New Barnet. We periodically review our policies, risk assessments and supplier management processes to ensure that they remain effective and reflect current legislation and best practice.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed on an annual basis and updated where necessary to reflect changes in our activities, risk profile and regulatory requirements. As part of each annual review, we assess the effectiveness of our due diligence measures, evaluate any reported concerns, and consider further steps to strengthen our controls and training.

Gardeners New Barnet remains committed to continuous improvement in our efforts to eliminate modern slavery and human trafficking from our operations and supply chains. We will continue to work collaboratively with employees, suppliers and other stakeholders to uphold high ethical standards and protect the rights and welfare of all workers connected with our business.