Gardeners Shadwell Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Shadwell to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, workers, contractors, and suppliers engaged by Gardeners Shadwell, regardless of location or function.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Shadwell has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, human trafficking, servitude, and any form of exploitation or abuse. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships, and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery is not taking place in our operations or supply chains.

We expect the same high standards from all of our suppliers, subcontractors, and business partners. Compliance with our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery is a fundamental condition of doing business with Gardeners Shadwell. Where we identify non-compliance or material risk, we will take appropriate steps, which may include suspension or termination of the relationship.

Risk Assessment and Due Diligence

We regularly assess the risk of modern slavery within our organisation and supply chain. This assessment considers the nature of the goods and services we procure, the geographic locations from which they are sourced, and the type of labour involved. Higher-risk areas are subject to enhanced due diligence and closer ongoing scrutiny.

Due diligence measures may include reviewing supplier policies, requesting supporting documentation, undertaking desk-based research, and prioritising engagement with suppliers in sectors or regions where the risk of labour exploitation is more prevalent. Our objective is to identify and, where possible, prevent or mitigate any potential instances of modern slavery.

Supplier Standards and Audits

All key suppliers are required to confirm their adherence to our standards on modern slavery and human rights. Gardeners Shadwell expects suppliers to maintain fair working conditions, comply with local labour laws, provide safe workplaces, and ensure that employment is freely chosen.

We conduct supplier audits, which may be announced or unannounced, depending on the level of risk identified. These audits review working conditions, recruitment practices, documentation, and other relevant aspects to verify that there is no use of forced, bonded, or child labour. Where issues are identified, we work with suppliers to agree corrective action plans and monitor progress. Continued failure to address concerns can result in the termination of supplier relationships.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Shadwell encourages all employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns may include suspected exploitation, unsafe working conditions, deceptive recruitment, or any behaviour that appears inconsistent with this statement.

Reports can be made through established internal reporting channels, including line management and senior management escalation routes. We treat all reports sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. No person will suffer any form of retaliation or detrimental treatment for raising a concern in good faith. All reports will be investigated promptly, and appropriate remedial action will be taken if issues are substantiated.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibility

Relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and recruitment, receive training to help them recognise the signs of modern slavery and understand how to respond to concerns. This training supports our efforts to maintain vigilance and embed our zero-tolerance approach throughout the organisation.

Overall responsibility for this Modern Slavery Statement rests with the senior management of Gardeners Shadwell. Managers at all levels are responsible for ensuring those reporting to them understand and comply with this statement and are aware of the requirement to report any concerns.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Shadwell is committed to continuous improvement in identifying and addressing risks of modern slavery. We regularly review our policies, procedures, and supplier management processes to ensure they remain effective and aligned with evolving best practice and applicable legislation.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed on an annual basis and updated where necessary to reflect changes in our operations, supply chains, or risk profile. It represents our ongoing commitment to uphold human rights, promote fair and safe working conditions, and prevent modern slavery in every part of our business activities.