Modern Slavery Statement
Gardeners Kingston Modern Slavery Statement
Gardeners Kingston is committed to conducting all aspects of its business in a way that respects human rights, promotes fair working conditions, and actively opposes modern slavery and human trafficking. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to identify, prevent, and address the risk of modern slavery within our operations and supply chains.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Approach
We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, human trafficking, servitude, and child labour that is not in line with applicable laws and international standards. This policy applies to every part of Gardeners Kingston’s business, from our direct employees to contractors, agency workers, and all levels of our supply chain.
We expect all individuals and organisations working with or on behalf of Gardeners Kingston to share this commitment. Any evidence or reasonable suspicion of modern slavery in connection with our business will be treated with utmost seriousness and may lead to the termination of contracts or relationships, as well as reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.
Governance and Responsibilities
The senior management team at Gardeners Kingston is responsible for overseeing our response to modern slavery risks and for reviewing the effectiveness of our controls. Management is tasked with ensuring that staff understand this statement, are aware of the signs of modern slavery, and know how to raise concerns safely and responsibly.
Managers are required to embed respect for human rights into day-to-day decision-making, including recruitment, procurement, and supplier management. They must also encourage an open culture in which concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation.
Supplier Standards and Audits
Our suppliers play a crucial role in helping us uphold our values. We expect all suppliers to adhere to applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws in the countries where they operate and to actively prevent modern slavery in their own operations and supply chains.
As part of our supplier due diligence, we assess new and existing suppliers based on risk factors such as location, type of work, and past performance. Where appropriate, we conduct audits or request evidence of compliance with labour standards, such as written policies, workforce records, and proof of worker protections. We reserve the right to conduct site visits, either announced or unannounced, where risk is deemed higher.
If a supplier fails to meet our expectations or refuses to address identified issues within an agreed timeframe, we may suspend or end the relationship.
Employee Awareness, Training, and Reporting Channels
We aim to ensure that our employees and key contractors understand what modern slavery is, how to recognise potential warning signs, and how to respond. Training and guidance are provided to relevant staff involved in recruitment, procurement, site supervision, and supplier management.
All staff are encouraged to speak up if they suspect any form of modern slavery in our operations or supply chain. Concerns can be raised directly with line managers, senior management, or via established internal escalation routes. Reports can be made confidentially, and we will take all reasonable steps to protect those who raise concerns in good faith from detrimental treatment.
Risk Assessment and Continuous Improvement
We periodically review the risk of modern slavery in our business and supply chains, taking into account factors such as the nature of the services provided, the countries from which we source materials, and the sector-specific risks associated with horticulture, landscaping, and related activities.
Where greater risk is identified, we implement enhanced measures, which may include more frequent audits, additional supplier questionnaires, closer contract monitoring, and more targeted staff training.
Annual Review and Statement Approval
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with relevant legislation and good practice guidance. As part of the review process, we consider feedback from staff, learnings from any reported concerns or incidents, and developments in best practice across our sector.
The updated statement is then approved by senior management and communicated internally so that all staff are aware of any changes. By maintaining this focus on continuous improvement, Gardeners Kingston seeks to strengthen its defences against modern slavery and to promote ethical, responsible practices throughout its operations and supply chains.
