Modern Slavery Commitment by Gardeners South Croydon

Gardeners South Croydon is firmly committed to combating modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and all forms of exploitation within our operations and supply chains. As a local gardening and landscaping business, we recognise our responsibility to act ethically, uphold human rights, and promote fair working practices in every aspect of our work.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

We operate a clear and uncompromising zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to all employees, agency staff, contractors, and suppliers who work with or on behalf of Gardeners South Croydon. We will not knowingly engage with any individual or organisation that is involved in exploitative practices, including forced labour, debt bondage, child labour, or any form of coerced or deceptive recruitment.

All new commercial relationships are subject to an assessment of the risk of modern slavery, and any concerns identified will result in further investigation or the refusal or termination of that relationship. Our policy is embedded in our internal procedures, contracts, and supplier expectations, and forms part of how we evaluate business partners.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our services rely on a network of suppliers providing plants, tools, equipment, uniforms, transport and waste services. We expect all suppliers to adhere to the same high ethical standards we set for ourselves, and to comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws in their jurisdictions.

To support this, we undertake proportionate supplier due diligence and audits. New suppliers are assessed on their employment practices, working conditions and approach to modern slavery. Existing suppliers are subject to periodic reviews, which may include requests for evidence of policies, staff training, and labour standards monitoring. Where we consider the risk to be higher, we may conduct more detailed audits, including site visits, document checks and discussions with workers where appropriate.

If a supplier is found to be in breach of our standards, we will seek corrective action within a reasonable timeframe. Failure to address identified issues may result in the suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Employee Awareness, Conduct and Training

All staff at Gardeners South Croydon are expected to act with integrity, respect and professionalism at all times. We emphasise the importance of fair treatment, transparent pay practices, and safe working conditions. We strive to ensure that all employees have written terms of employment, are paid at least the applicable minimum wage, and work only on a voluntary basis.

We provide staff with guidance on recognising potential indicators of modern slavery, such as signs of coercion, restriction of movement, retention of identity documents, or unusual dependency on third parties. Employees are instructed not to ignore or dismiss concerns and to report them immediately through the channels described below.

Reporting Channels and Escalation

Gardeners South Croydon encourages a culture of openness and accountability. Any employee, worker, contractor, or supplier who has concerns about modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business or supply chains is encouraged to report those concerns without delay.

Reports can be made directly to a line manager or to senior management. Concerns may be raised verbally or in writing, and can include suspicions, observations or information received from others. All reports will be taken seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated as appropriate. We will protect individuals who raise concerns in good faith from retaliation or adverse treatment.

Where necessary, we will cooperate with law enforcement agencies and other competent authorities, and we will support affected individuals to access appropriate help and protection.

Monitoring, Accountability and Annual Review

We are committed to continually improving our approach to tackling modern slavery. Gardeners South Croydon will review this Modern Slavery Statement at least once every year, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, business activities or identified risks.

The annual review will consider the effectiveness of our policies, supplier assessments, audit outcomes and training activities. We will identify areas for improvement, update procedures as needed, and communicate any significant changes to relevant stakeholders.

This Modern Slavery Statement reflects the position and commitments of Gardeners South Croydon for the current financial year and has been approved by the companys leadership, who are responsible for its implementation and oversight.