Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Cambridge Heath Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Cambridge Heath to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights. Our organisation is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Cambridge Heath adopts a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any business, supplier, subcontractor, or individual who is involved in or complicit with any form of forced labour, servitude, debt bondage, child labour, or exploitation.

All employees, managers, and suppliers are expected to uphold this commitment and to comply with applicable legislation relating to modern slavery and human rights wherever we operate. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in termination of employment or business relationships, as appropriate.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners Cambridge Heath provides gardening and related services. Our supply chains include the procurement of tools, equipment, plants, protective clothing, and ancillary services. While we consider our sector to be at relatively low risk, we recognise that no supply chain is entirely free from the risk of exploitation. We therefore seek to understand and manage these risks proactively.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. As part of our supplier due diligence process, we communicate our zero-tolerance policy and require suppliers to confirm that they operate in compliance with all relevant labour and human rights laws.

Gardeners Cambridge Heath conducts proportionate assessments and audits of key suppliers, focusing on those where there may be a greater risk due to the nature of the goods or services supplied or the geographical location of operations. These audits may include requests for information about labour practices, recruitment processes, use of subcontractors, and workforce welfare.

Where concerns arise, we will work collaboratively with the supplier to address and remediate issues. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to meet our standards within a reasonable timeframe, we reserve the right to end the commercial relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Cambridge Heath encourages all employees, workers, and suppliers to speak up if they have any concerns about modern slavery or unethical practices within our operations or supply chains. Individuals may raise concerns directly with their manager, through internal reporting channels, or by approaching senior management.

We are committed to ensuring that anyone who raises a concern in good faith is protected from retaliation, victimisation, or adverse treatment. All reports will be treated seriously, considered confidentially where possible, and investigated promptly. Appropriate action will be taken if any form of modern slavery is identified or suspected.

Training and Awareness

We are working to increase awareness of modern slavery among our staff, particularly those involved in procurement, supplier management, and site supervision. Training and guidance are provided to help employees recognise signs of exploitation, understand our policies, and know how to report concerns.

We expect managers to lead by example and to ensure that their teams understand and uphold our standards of ethical conduct.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Gardeners Cambridge Heath is committed to continually improving our approach to tackling modern slavery. We will review our policies, procedures, and supplier controls regularly to ensure they remain effective and appropriate to the nature and scale of our operations.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed and updated on an annual basis by senior management. The review considers any incidents reported, changes in legislation or guidance, feedback from stakeholders, and the findings of supplier audits. Lessons learned are used to strengthen our controls and inform future actions.

By maintaining a clear zero-tolerance stance, engaging with our suppliers, providing accessible reporting channels, and committing to regular review, Gardeners Cambridge Heath aims to play a responsible role in the prevention of modern slavery and the protection of human rights across our business and supply chains.