Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners St Margarets

Gardeners St Margarets is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and with full respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the principles and actions that guide our approach to preventing exploitation in every area of our work. We recognise that modern slavery can take many forms, including forced labour, debt bondage, child labour, and human trafficking, and we are determined to ensure that such practices have no place in our operations or supply chain.

As part of our zero-tolerance policy, we expect every employee, contractor, and supplier associated with Gardener St Margarets to uphold the highest ethical standards. We do not accept any form of coercion, abuse, deception, or exploitation. This commitment applies equally to all levels of the business, from the sourcing of materials to the delivery of gardening services and related activities. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in the termination of business relationships.

We also recognise the importance of awareness and vigilance in preventing risk. Staff are trained to identify warning signs of exploitation and to understand the procedures for escalation and investigation. Our approach reflects a broader commitment to fair work, dignity, and transparency across the activities of Gardeners St Margarets. By embedding these principles into daily practice, we strengthen our ability to detect concerns early and take effective action.

Supplier relationships are an essential part of our ethical framework. We carry out supplier audits and due diligence checks to assess labour practices, working conditions, and compliance with applicable laws. Where concerns are identified, we require corrective action plans and reserve the right to suspend or end the relationship if improvements are not made. This process helps ensure that the suppliers supporting Gardeners St Margarets share our commitment to responsible conduct and lawful employment practices.

Audits are supported by ongoing review of sourcing arrangements, contract terms, and documentation relating to workforce standards. We take a risk-based approach, giving greater attention to areas where modern slavery risks may be higher, including seasonal labour, subcontracting, and imported goods. The aim is not only compliance, but continuous improvement in the way Gardeners St Margarets manages ethical risk throughout its supply chain.

The statement is also reinforced by clear reporting channels. Any worker, manager, or supplier who suspects unethical conduct can raise a concern through internal reporting routes without fear of retaliation. Reports are treated confidentially and investigated promptly. This open approach supports a culture of accountability and gives people the confidence to speak up if they see something that does not align with our values.

We expect honesty and cooperation throughout the reporting and review process, and we take every concern seriously. If an allegation is substantiated, appropriate steps are taken, which may include further investigation, staff retraining, supplier review, or referral to relevant authorities. These measures demonstrate that Gardeners St Margarets does not merely state its commitment to ethical conduct, but actively works to protect those who may be vulnerable to abuse.

Responsibility for implementation sits with management, who oversee policy communication, audit findings, and corrective actions. Regular checks are undertaken to make sure procedures remain effective and aligned with current legal and operational expectations. In this way, Gardeners St Margarets maintains an active, proportionate, and practical response to modern slavery risks.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and effective. The annual review considers audit results, reported concerns, supplier performance, training needs, and any changes in law or guidance. Through this ongoing review cycle, Gardeners St Margarets strengthens its safeguards and renews its commitment to operating with integrity, fairness, and respect for human dignity.