Gardeners Hounslow Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Hounslow takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold human rights and to act with integrity and transparency in all our business dealings.
Modern slavery is a crime and a fundamental violation of human rights. It can take many forms, including slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour, and human trafficking. Gardeners Hounslow is committed to doing business in a way that respects the dignity and rights of all individuals who work for us, with us, or are affected by our activities.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
Gardeners Hounslow has a clear zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to all aspects of our business, including direct employment, subcontracted work, and our wider supply chain. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation or individual involved in modern slavery practices.
All employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to share this commitment. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in termination of contracts, removal from approved supplier lists, or disciplinary action where appropriate. We are committed to taking prompt, robust action whenever concerns are raised or issues are identified.
Our Supply Chain and Supplier Audits
Gardeners Hounslow works with a range of suppliers and subcontractors, including those providing plants, materials, equipment, and services that support our gardening and grounds maintenance activities. We recognise that risks can arise at different stages of the supply chain, particularly where there is low-paid, seasonal, or temporary labour.
To address these risks, we expect our suppliers to operate to the same high ethical standards as we do. We communicate our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery and make clear that compliance with all relevant labour and human rights legislation is a condition of doing business with us.
We carry out proportionate supplier audits and checks to verify that our key suppliers understand and meet our expectations. These may include requesting information on employment practices, reviewing policies, and conducting site visits where appropriate. Where non-compliance or areas of concern are identified, we work with suppliers to implement corrective actions. Persistent or serious failures will result in a review of the commercial relationship and may lead to termination.
Reporting Concerns and Speaking Up
Gardeners Hounslow encourages a culture of openness and accountability. We want all workers, whether directly employed or engaged through third parties, to feel confident in raising concerns about modern slavery or unethical practices without fear of victimisation or retaliation.
Workers and stakeholders can report concerns to their line manager, a senior manager, or another trusted point of contact within Gardeners Hounslow. Allegations or suspicions of modern slavery will be treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively. We will respect confidentiality as far as possible and share information only where necessary to investigate and resolve the issue or to comply with legal obligations.
Where appropriate, we will cooperate fully with relevant authorities and specialist organisations in the investigation and remediation of any identified cases of modern slavery.
Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement
We are committed to building awareness of modern slavery risks within Gardeners Hounslow. Managers and team members involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management receive guidance on identifying warning signs and understanding our procedures. We will continue to review and enhance our training and information as best practice evolves.
Our approach to preventing modern slavery is part of a broader commitment to responsible business conduct, fair treatment, and safe working conditions. We recognise that tackling modern slavery requires ongoing vigilance and continuous improvement, rather than a one-off exercise.
Annual Review and Governance
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the leadership of Gardeners Hounslow. The review considers changes in our business, updates in legislation, feedback from stakeholders, and any issues that have arisen during the year.
Where necessary, we update our policies, procedures, and supplier requirements to strengthen our controls and reduce risk. We are committed to transparency in reporting on our progress and to embedding respect for human rights into the way we plan, deliver, and grow our services.
This statement has been approved on behalf of Gardeners Hounslow and reflects our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery in all its forms.
