Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Elm Park Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions taken by Gardeners Elm Park to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to respect and promote human rights and to conduct our business in a manner that protects the dignity and wellbeing of all individuals who contribute to our services.

Gardeners Elm Park operates in the gardening and grounds maintenance sector, working with a range of suppliers and subcontractors for materials, equipment, transport, and specialist services. We understand that modern slavery can occur in any industry and at any stage of the supply chain, and we are committed to taking proactive steps to identify, prevent, and address any such risks.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

We maintain a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced or compulsory labour, bonded labour, child labour in contravention of local laws, human trafficking, and any form of exploitation or abuse. This policy applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers who work with or on behalf of Gardeners Elm Park.

Our expectation is that every individual associated with our business is treated fairly, works freely, receives at least the minimum legal wage, and operates in safe and respectful conditions. Any breach or suspected breach of our zero-tolerance policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in termination of contracts or working relationships, alongside reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We are committed to working only with suppliers and subcontractors who share our values on human rights and ethical labour practices. As part of our due diligence, we aim to assess the modern slavery risks associated with our supply chains, with particular attention to higher risk sectors or regions.

Our supplier requirements are communicated through contractual terms and our internal policies, which set out expectations regarding compliance with labour laws, prohibition of forced or trafficked labour, and fair working conditions. Where appropriate, we reserve the right to conduct audits or request evidence from suppliers that demonstrates their compliance with these requirements.

Supplier audits may include site visits, interviews with management and workers, and review of relevant documentation, such as employment records and health and safety procedures. If concerns are identified, we will engage with the supplier to agree on corrective actions and timescales. Where corrective action is not possible or not undertaken, we will consider ending the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Elm Park encourages all employees, contractors, and suppliers to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or unethical labour practices without fear of retaliation. We are committed to fostering a culture where speaking up is supported and protected.

Concerns can be raised internally to line managers or senior management. Reports may include information about working conditions, recruitment practices, treatment of workers, or any indication that an individual may be working against their will. All reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly and impartially.

Where an investigation indicates that modern slavery or related abuses may be occurring, we will take immediate steps to safeguard affected individuals, address the underlying issues, and cooperate with law enforcement and relevant agencies as required.

Training and Awareness

We recognise that awareness and understanding are essential to preventing modern slavery. Gardeners Elm Park aims to provide appropriate guidance to managers and staff whose roles involve the recruitment, supervision, or selection of suppliers. This includes helping them recognise potential indicators of exploitation and understand the procedures for responding to concerns.

We also encourage our suppliers and business partners to promote similar awareness and training within their own organisations, particularly where they operate in sectors or regions with elevated risks of modern slavery.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery sits with the senior management of Gardeners Elm Park. They are accountable for ensuring that our policies are implemented, that concerns are properly investigated, and that we continually seek opportunities to strengthen our controls.

We monitor the effectiveness of our actions through regular review of supplier performance, incident reports, and any feedback received from workers or stakeholders. Learning from audits, investigations, or industry developments is used to improve our practices and mitigate emerging risks.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least once every year to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. As part of the annual review, we will evaluate our risk assessments, supplier due diligence, training efforts, and any reported incidents, updating our approach where necessary to enhance protection for workers throughout our operations and supply chains.

This statement reflects the position of Gardeners Elm Park for the current financial year and has been approved by the leadership of the business.