Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners North Harrow to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold fundamental human rights and to ensure that all work is undertaken voluntarily, with dignity, and in fair and safe conditions.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners North Harrow has a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, and human trafficking. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business relationships and to implementing and enforcing systems that seek to ensure modern slavery does not take place within our own business or in any of our supply chains.

All managers, employees, contractors, and business partners are expected to share this commitment. Any suspected involvement in modern slavery, whether direct or indirect, will be treated as a serious breach of our standards and may result in the termination of employment or commercial relationships.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners North Harrow provides gardening and related services to residential and commercial customers. Our supply chains include, but are not limited to, the sourcing of plants, soils, aggregates, tools, machinery, personal protective equipment, and other gardening-related materials and services.

We understand that certain sectors and geographies may present higher risks of labour exploitation. We therefore maintain a risk-based approach to assessing suppliers and prioritise engagement and oversight where the risks of modern slavery may be greater.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers, subcontractors, and service providers to uphold standards that are consistent with our zero-tolerance policy. As a condition of doing business with Gardeners North Harrow, suppliers are required to comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws and to prohibit the use of forced, trafficked, or child labour in their operations.

We conduct proportionate supplier audits and reviews, which may include questionnaires, requests for supporting documentation, and site visits where appropriate. These audits are used to assess compliance with our expectations regarding fair pay, working hours, freedom of movement, and health and safety. Where concerns are identified, we work with suppliers to agree corrective actions and timeframes. If a supplier fails to demonstrate sufficient progress or willingness to remedy issues, we reserve the right to suspend or end the relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

Gardeners North Harrow encourages all employees, workers in our supply chain, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions about modern slavery or unethical labour practices. No individual who raises a concern in good faith will suffer victimisation or retaliation.

Concerns can be raised directly with line managers or senior management, or through internal reporting channels established for ethical and compliance issues. Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. Where appropriate, we will involve external authorities and cooperate fully with any official investigations.

Training and Awareness

To support the effective implementation of this statement, we provide relevant training and guidance to employees, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management. Training covers the indicators of modern slavery, how to respond to potential cases, and the reporting routes available.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior management of Gardeners North Harrow. We monitor the effectiveness of our measures through supplier assessments, internal reviews, and feedback from staff and stakeholders.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. As our business and supply chains evolve, we will continue to strengthen our due diligence, audit processes, and training to further reduce the risk of modern slavery and to promote ethical labour standards throughout our operations.