Gardener Croydon Modern Slavery Statement

Gardener Croydon publishes this Modern Slavery Statement to set out our commitment to preventing slavery, forced labour and human trafficking across our operations. This anti-slavery statement describes the steps we take to identify, assess and mitigate risk. We adopt a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of modern slavery and expect the same standard from our suppliers, partners and subcontractors.

We recognise our responsibility under the slavery and human trafficking statement provisions and we will not knowingly support or deal with any business involved in exploitative practices. Our Modern Slavery Policy is integrated into business processes and communicated to staff, contractors and suppliers. The policy is clear: any suspicion of forced labour or exploitation will trigger an immediate investigation and corrective action.

The scope of this modern slavery and human trafficking statement covers our entire supply chain, including horticultural suppliers, maintenance contractors and service providers. We carry out due diligence focusing on higher-risk sectors and geographies, and we build anti-slavery clauses into contracts and procurement documentation. If risks are identified, we implement remediation plans and monitor progress until standards are met.

Zero-Tolerance Approach and Governance

Our zero-tolerance policy makes clear that any form of slavery or human trafficking is unacceptable. Governance responsibilities sit with senior management and the board, who review emerging risks and approve remedial measures. We require all employees to complete training on recognising signs of exploitation, with mandatory refresher courses.

We embed prevention through contractual requirements, supplier onboarding checks and employee awareness. Where suppliers cannot demonstrate adequate safeguards, we will not engage them, or we will require improvement within a set timeframe. Our procurement team maintains a risk register and reports quarterly on supplier status and compliance with our anti-slavery commitments.

To make our expectations clear, we publish procurement standards that include labour standards, freedom of movement, and prohibition of child labour. We incorporate strong contractual warranties and audit rights to ensure compliance throughout the supply chain. Suppliers must maintain records proving lawful employment practices and working conditions.

Supplier Audits, Monitoring and Training

We operate a programme of supplier audits and site visits focused on high-risk suppliers and sectors. Audits assess working hours, wage payments, recruitment practices and living conditions where relevant. Audit findings lead to corrective action plans, continued monitoring, or contract termination where issues are not resolved.

Our supplier audit protocol uses both announced and unannounced inspections and may involve third-party specialists. We also utilise worker voice mechanisms and independent verification where practical. The programme is a core part of our modern slavery compliance and continuous improvement initiatives.

We provide regular training and resources to procurement teams, site managers and senior leaders to ensure they can identify signs of exploitation and respond appropriately. Training emphasises safe reporting and protection for workers who raise concerns.

Reporting Channels and Protection for Whistleblowers

Gardener Croydon maintains multiple reporting channels so that employees, contractors and third parties can report concerns confidentially and without fear of reprisal. Reports may be raised internally through line managers, HR, or an appointed compliance officer, and are dealt with promptly and discreetly.

We protect whistleblowers and ensure any allegation is investigated by trained personnel. Investigations follow a fair, thorough and timely process and may involve external experts when allegations suggest systemic or serious abuse. We will take proportionate remedial action including support for affected workers and disciplinary measures for perpetrators.

Our annual review cycle ensures the effectiveness of reporting channels, audits and training. We measure performance through key indicators such as number of risk assessments completed, audit outcomes, supplier corrective actions and training completion rates.

Each year we publish an updated slavery and human trafficking statement that summarises progress and sets objectives for the coming period. The annual review assesses the impact of our modern slavery policy and supplier compliance programmes, identifies new risks and adapts our approach as needed.

We are committed to continuous improvement and collaboration with industry peers, suppliers and relevant stakeholders to strengthen protections against modern slavery. Our efforts concentrate on prevention, detection and remediation to ensure fair and safe working conditions everywhere our business has influence.

By maintaining rigorous supplier audits, clear reporting channels, and a firm zero-tolerance stance, Gardener Croydon strives to eradicate forced labour from its operations and supply chains. This statement is approved by senior leadership and will be reviewed at least annually as part of our commitment to responsible business conduct.