Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Bethnal Green has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking from occurring within our business operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting our gardening and related services ethically and responsibly, and to respecting the rights and dignity of every individual who works with or for us.

Modern slavery is a crime and a gross violation of fundamental human rights. It can take many forms, including slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, child labour, and human trafficking. Gardeners Bethnal Green has a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Bethnal Green is committed to acting with integrity and transparency in all business dealings. We operate a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of modern slavery within our organisation and our supply chains. This means we will not knowingly engage with, support, or benefit from any arrangement that involves forced labour, exploitation, or abuse.

All employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to uphold this commitment. We make it clear that any breach of our zero-tolerance policy may result in the termination of employment or contract and, where appropriate, will be reported to relevant authorities.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Standards

Our supply chains include providers of plants, gardening materials, tools, equipment, uniforms, transport, and other services that support our operations. We expect all suppliers to share our commitment to human rights and fair working conditions.

Gardeners Bethnal Green is working towards incorporating clear anti-slavery and human trafficking clauses into our supplier terms and conditions. We expect suppliers to confirm that they comply with applicable labour laws, uphold fair pay, working hours, and conditions, and prohibit the use of forced, bonded, or child labour.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

We are implementing a risk-based approach to supplier audits and due diligence. Where we identify higher risk, such as complex supply chains or sourcing from regions with weaker labour protections, we take additional steps to verify that modern slavery is not present.

These steps may include requesting information from suppliers on their labour practices, policies, and training, and conducting periodic checks or audits. Where concerns are raised or indicators of non-compliance are identified, we will investigate promptly. If a supplier is found to be involved in modern slavery, we will take corrective action, which may include suspending or ending the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Bethnal Green encourages all employees, contractors, and other stakeholders to speak up if they have any concerns about potential modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business or supply chains. Concerns can be raised verbally or in writing to a manager or a senior member of the business.

We treat all reports seriously and, as far as possible, confidentially. No individual will suffer retaliation or detrimental treatment for reporting a genuine concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated after investigation.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to building awareness of modern slavery risks among our team. Relevant staff receive information about the signs of modern slavery and how to respond if they suspect exploitation. We aim to ensure that those involved in procurement and supplier management understand our policies and the importance of due diligence.

Monitoring, Annual Review, and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Bethnal Green recognises that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We will review this Modern Slavery Statement annually to assess the effectiveness of our actions and to identify areas for improvement. This review will take into account feedback from employees, information from suppliers, audit findings, and any incidents or reports raised.

As part of the annual review, we will consider whether to enhance our policies, update our risk assessments, strengthen supplier requirements, or extend our training and awareness activities. Our aim is continuous improvement in preventing modern slavery and protecting the rights of all workers connected to our business.

This statement has been approved by the management of Gardeners Bethnal Green and represents our commitment to ethical, transparent, and responsible operations.