Modern Slavery Statement of Gardeners Arnos Grove

Gardeners Arnos Grove is committed to conducting all aspects of its business in an ethical and responsible manner. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our own operations and throughout our supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to identify, prevent, and address any instances of forced labour, servitude, child labour, or human trafficking associated with our activities.

Modern slavery can occur in many forms, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, and exploitation through coercion or deception. We are committed to continually assessing our business practices and supplier relationships so that risks are identified early and dealt with effectively.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

Gardeners Arnos Grove has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not tolerate any form of exploitation in our operations or supply chains and will take decisive action where we identify a risk or breach. All employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to share this commitment and conduct their activities in a way that respects human rights and promotes fair working conditions.

We require that all individuals working for or on behalf of Gardeners Arnos Grove are employed voluntarily, are free to leave their employment upon reasonable notice, and are treated with dignity and respect. Any indication that these principles are not being upheld will be investigated, and appropriate corrective steps will be taken, including termination of contracts where necessary.

Supplier Standards and Audits

Our supply chain includes providers of gardening products, tools, equipment, and related services. We expect all suppliers to comply with applicable labour and human rights laws and to operate with integrity and transparency. As part of our due diligence, we seek assurances from suppliers that they do not use forced, bonded, or involuntary labour and that they have policies and processes in place to prevent modern slavery.

Gardeners Arnos Grove undertakes periodic supplier audits, which may include site visits, document reviews, and discussions with management and, where appropriate, workers. These audits are designed to assess compliance with our ethical standards, including the prohibition of modern slavery. Where issues are identified, we work with suppliers on corrective action plans and monitor their implementation. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to meet our expectations, we reserve the right to review or terminate the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage employees, contractors, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to Gardeners Arnos Grove. Individuals are encouraged to raise concerns with their line manager, senior management, or through any established internal reporting mechanisms. Reports can be made in good faith without fear of retaliation or detrimental treatment.

All reports are treated seriously and handled with appropriate confidentiality. We commit to investigating concerns promptly and fairly, and to taking suitable action where any form of modern slavery or exploitation is identified. This may include engaging with relevant authorities and working with affected individuals and organisations to support remediation.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Arnos Grove recognises that awareness and understanding among staff are essential to preventing modern slavery. Where appropriate, we provide guidance and information to help employees identify signs of exploitation and understand how to report concerns. We also seek to build long-term relationships with suppliers who share our values and are willing to improve their practices in line with evolving standards.

We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach to tackling modern slavery and will review our processes, risk assessments, and engagement with suppliers regularly. Lessons learned from audits, investigations, and stakeholder feedback will inform updates to our policies and practices.

Annual Review and Approval

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with current legislation and best practice. As part of this review, we assess the effectiveness of our actions, consider any changes in our operations or supply chains, and update our priorities where necessary.

The updated statement is approved by the leadership of Gardeners Arnos Grove and made available to our stakeholders. Through this ongoing review and commitment, we aim to strengthen our efforts to eliminate modern slavery and human trafficking from our business and to promote fair, safe, and respectful working conditions for all.