Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Rotherhithe

Gardeners Rotherhithe is committed to conducting all aspects of our business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, temporary workers, contractors, and suppliers engaged by Gardeners Rotherhithe.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

We operate a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and all forms of exploitation. Modern slavery is fundamentally incompatible with our values and with the trust placed in us by customers, colleagues, and the communities we serve. Any form of abuse, coercion, or exploitation is unacceptable, regardless of local practices or economic conditions.

All individuals working for or with Gardeners Rotherhithe are expected to act ethically and to uphold this zero-tolerance policy. We will take decisive action where there is evidence or a serious suspicion of modern slavery, which may include terminating relationships with workers, contractors, or suppliers who breach this policy.

Our Operations and Supply Chain

Gardeners Rotherhithe provides gardening and grounds maintenance services, using a range of materials, equipment, and subcontracted services. Our supply chain includes providers of plants, soil, tools, machinery, uniforms, and related services. We recognise that modern slavery risks can be present at any point in this chain, especially where there is low-skilled or seasonal work, or where goods are sourced internationally.

We strive to work with suppliers who share our commitment to ethical standards, fair treatment of workers, and compliance with applicable labour laws. We expect all business partners to cascade similar expectations to their own supply chains.

Supplier Standards and Audits

Suppliers and contractors are required to comply with our ethical trading standards, which prohibit forced labour, child labour, unfair wages, excessive working hours, and unsafe working conditions. We expect transparent record keeping and the ability to demonstrate compliance upon request.

We undertake risk-based checks of key suppliers and contractors. These may include requests for documentation on labour practices, site visits where appropriate, and verification of compliance with relevant employment, health and safety, and immigration laws. Where risks are identified, we will work collaboratively with suppliers to improve standards. If necessary improvements are not made within a reasonable timeframe, we may suspend or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Rotherhithe encourages all employees, workers, contractors, and other stakeholders to report any concerns about modern slavery or unethical practices. Reports may relate to our own operations or to those of our suppliers and business partners.

Concerns can be raised with a line manager, a senior manager, or via the established internal reporting channels made available to staff and contractors. Reports can be made in confidence and will be handled sensitively, with appropriate follow-up investigations. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to building awareness of modern slavery risks within our organisation. Relevant staff members, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and site supervision, are provided with guidance on identifying warning signs of exploitation and on the steps to take if concerns arise.

We keep our internal guidance under review to reflect evolving best practice, legal requirements, and lessons learned from our own experience and from developments within our sector.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Rotherhithe recognises that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process. We monitor the effectiveness of our approach through reviews of supplier performance, incident reports, and feedback from workers and stakeholders. Where gaps or weaknesses are identified, we take corrective action and update our procedures.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by senior management to ensure it remains appropriate, effective, and aligned with current legislation and guidance. The review considers changes in our operations, supply chains, and risk profile, as well as outcomes from any audits or investigations undertaken during the year.

By continuing to develop our systems, strengthen our supplier relationships, and promote a culture of transparency and respect for human rights, Gardeners Rotherhithe aims to contribute to the elimination of modern slavery in all its forms.