Modern Slavery Statement
Gardeners Hendon Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Gardeners Hendon in recognition of our responsibility to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically, with integrity and transparency in all business dealings, and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery does not occur in any part of our organisation or among our suppliers.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
Gardeners Hendon has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, child labour and debt bondage. This policy applies to all individuals working for or on behalf of Gardeners Hendon at all levels, including employees, agency workers, contractors, consultants, and business partners.
No form of exploitation is acceptable in our business or supply chain. We will not knowingly engage with any supplier or individual who is involved in, or associated with, practices that constitute modern slavery. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in the termination of contracts, cessation of business relationships, and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.
Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits
Our supply chain includes providers of equipment, plants, materials, uniforms, and other services that support our gardening and landscaping activities. We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to share our commitment to ethical conduct and to comply with applicable laws relating to labour, human rights, and workplace standards.
Gardeners Hendon is developing and implementing a risk-based approach to supplier due diligence. This includes gathering information regarding suppliers’ labour practices, reviewing available documentation relating to workforce conditions, and prioritising enhanced checks for higher-risk categories, such as seasonal labour, subcontracted services, or suppliers from regions with known human rights concerns.
Where appropriate, we may conduct audits or request evidence of compliance from suppliers, including policies on modern slavery, proof of age verification processes, working hours controls, and wage records. If concerns are identified, we will work with suppliers to address and remediate issues within clear timeframes. Persistent or serious failures to meet our standards can result in the suspension or termination of the business relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Raising Suspicions
Gardeners Hendon is committed to creating an environment in which concerns about modern slavery, human trafficking, and unethical labour practices can be raised safely and without fear of retaliation. We encourage all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any suspicion or knowledge of modern slavery connected to our business or supply chains.
Concerns may be reported to management or through any designated internal reporting channels made available to staff and contractors. Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and, where possible, confidentially. We will investigate all reports promptly and take appropriate action, which may include engaging with the supplier, suspending work, or notifying relevant authorities.
No individual who makes a report in good faith will face dismissal, disciplinary action, or any other form of detriment as a result of raising a concern.
Training, Awareness, and Responsibility
Responsibility for overseeing this Modern Slavery Statement rests with the senior management of Gardeners Hendon. Management is responsible for ensuring that appropriate procedures are in place to identify, prevent, and address risks related to modern slavery in our operations and supply chains.
We are working to increase awareness of modern slavery indicators among key staff, especially those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management. This may include providing guidance on identifying warning signs, understanding risk factors, and knowing how to respond if a concern arises.
Review and Continuous Improvement
This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually by Gardeners Hendon to ensure it remains effective, up to date, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. As part of this review, we will consider any incidents reported, findings from supplier assessments or audits, regulatory changes, and opportunities for improvement in our processes and controls.
Updates to this statement and any significant changes to our approach will be communicated to staff and, where relevant, to suppliers and other stakeholders. Gardeners Hendon remains committed to ongoing improvement in our efforts to prevent modern slavery, protect vulnerable individuals, and promote fair and ethical working conditions throughout our business and supply chains.