Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Old Malden

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Old Malden takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery is not taking place in any part of our business or the services we procure.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners Old Malden provides gardening, landscaping, and related maintenance services to residential and commercial clients. Our activities rely on a combination of direct employees, seasonal workers, subcontractors, and a range of suppliers providing plants, materials, tools, equipment, and ancillary services. We recognise that some of these areas, particularly where there is low-skilled or seasonal labour, may be more vulnerable to the risk of modern slavery and human trafficking.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We have a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, and child labour. This applies to our own operations, to everyone working on our behalf, and to our entire supply chain. We expect all individuals and organisations we work with to share this commitment and to ensure that they uphold the same high standards. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in the termination of contracts or other appropriate action.

Policies and Governance

Our approach to preventing modern slavery is underpinned by our ethical conduct standards, recruitment processes, and health and safety arrangements. We seek to ensure that all workers engaged in our operations are doing so voluntarily, are paid fairly and in accordance with applicable laws, and have access to safe working conditions. Management is responsible for ensuring that this statement is communicated to relevant staff and that compliance with it is monitored across the business.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

Gardeners Old Malden conducts due diligence on new suppliers and reviews existing suppliers on a risk basis. We seek confirmation that suppliers comply with all relevant labour, employment, and human rights legislation in the countries where they operate. Where appropriate, we request evidence of their own modern slavery policies or statements and their procedures for managing labour risks.

We reserve the right to carry out audits or request audits of key suppliers, particularly where we identify higher-risk activities such as labour-intensive services or complex subcontracting chains. These audits may include site visits, document reviews, and discussions with management and workers. If suppliers are unable or unwilling to demonstrate appropriate steps to prevent modern slavery, we will consider remedial actions or the termination of our relationship.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff and managers. Training and guidance are provided, where relevant, to help those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management recognise indicators of exploitation and understand how to respond. We promote a culture where concerns about unethical or unsafe practices can be raised without fear of victimisation.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Old Malden encourages workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns related to modern slavery, human trafficking, or other serious misconduct. Concerns can be raised verbally or in writing to line management or senior management. Workers are assured that they will not suffer any detrimental treatment for raising a concern in good faith.

All reports will be treated seriously and investigated promptly, and appropriate action will be taken where wrongdoing is identified. Where necessary, we will cooperate with relevant authorities and support affected individuals to help ensure their safety and welfare.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility that requires continuous improvement. Gardeners Old Malden is committed to reviewing and strengthening our approach regularly in light of emerging risks, changes in legislation, industry best practice, and feedback from stakeholders.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually by senior management. As part of that review, we assess the effectiveness of our policies, due diligence processes, supplier audits, and reporting mechanisms. Where gaps or opportunities for improvement are identified, we update our procedures and communicate changes across the business and to relevant suppliers.

This statement reflects the position of Gardeners Old Malden at the time of publication and applies to our business and supply chains for the relevant financial year.