Modern Slavery Statement
Gardeners Highbury Modern Slavery Commitment
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Highbury to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights. Our commitment applies to all employees, contractors, and suppliers who work with or on behalf of Gardeners Highbury.
Gardeners Highbury operates within the gardening, landscaping, and related services sector. While we consider our direct operations to be low risk in relation to modern slavery, we acknowledge that risks may exist deeper within supply chains, particularly in areas involving manual labour, seasonal work, and the sourcing of materials, tools, and equipment.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
Gardeners Highbury has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking, including forced labour, bonded labour, servitude, child labour, and any form of exploitation. We are fully committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships.
All staff, from management to site-based teams, are expected to uphold this policy. Breaches of this policy by employees may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. For suppliers and contractors, any breach of our zero-tolerance stance may result in suspension or termination of contracts and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.
Supplier Standards and Audits
Our approach to managing modern slavery risk in our supply chains is based on clear standards, due diligence, and ongoing monitoring. Gardeners Highbury expects all suppliers to share our commitment to ethical labour practices and to comply with all applicable labour, health and safety, and human rights laws in the jurisdictions where they operate.
We conduct risk-based supplier reviews, focusing particular attention on suppliers operating in higher-risk sectors or regions. These reviews may include requesting written confirmations of compliance, reviewing policies and procedures, and examining workforce practices. Where proportionate, we carry out audits, which may be conducted by Gardeners Highbury personnel or reputable third parties.
During audits, we assess working conditions, employment documentation, and evidence of freedom of movement and freedom from coercion. We may also look at subcontracting practices and recruitment methods to ensure there are no hidden or indirect forms of exploitation.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Gardeners Highbury encourages anyone who has concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to our operations to report them without fear of retaliation. Concerns can be raised through internal management channels or through our established whistleblowing procedures.
All reports are taken seriously and will be investigated promptly and confidentially where possible. We will protect those who raise genuine concerns in good faith and will not tolerate any victimisation or adverse treatment as a result of speaking up. Where appropriate, we will cooperate with law enforcement and regulatory bodies to address any substantiated incidents.
Training and Awareness
We are committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff. Training is provided, where appropriate, to managers and employees involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management so they can identify potential warning signs and understand how to respond.
Guidance on identifying indicators of modern slavery, such as signs of coercion, restriction of movement, or unusual recruitment practices, is made available to relevant personnel. We keep this guidance under review to reflect emerging best practice.
Annual Review and Continuous Improvement
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by Gardeners Highbury. As part of this review, we assess the effectiveness of our policies, due diligence processes, and supplier engagement. We consider feedback from staff, suppliers, and other stakeholders, as well as developments in legislation and industry guidance.
Where the review identifies areas for improvement, we will update our procedures, strengthen our controls, and enhance staff training. Our aim is to continuously improve our ability to identify, prevent, and address the risk of modern slavery in all aspects of our business.
This Statement reflects Gardeners Highbury's ongoing commitment to ethical conduct, respect for human rights, and the protection of vulnerable individuals from exploitation in our operations and supply chains.
