Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners South Wimbledon

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps that Gardeners South Wimbledon has taken, and continues to take, to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not taking place within our business or our supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold the highest ethical standards and to protect the rights and dignity of all individuals who contribute to our services.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners South Wimbledon adopts a strict zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and exploitation. We are committed to acting with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery is not taking place in any part of our operations.

All managers, employees and contractors are required to adhere to this policy. Any breach is treated as a serious matter and may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts or referral to the relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners South Wimbledon provides gardening and grounds maintenance services. Our supply chains primarily include horticultural suppliers, equipment and machinery providers, uniform and workwear manufacturers, waste management providers and other service-related contractors. We recognise that risks may arise at different points in these supply chains, especially where there are multiple tiers of subcontracting or where goods originate from regions with weaker labour protections.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

We expect all suppliers and contractors to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. When engaging new suppliers, we undertake due diligence checks that may include requesting information on their labour practices, policies and code of conduct, as well as their own supply chain oversight. We communicate our zero-tolerance stance and make clear that compliance with applicable labour and human rights laws is a condition of doing business with us.

Where we identify concerns or potential risks, we take steps to investigate further and, if necessary, to work with suppliers on remedial actions. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to meet our expectations, we reserve the right to review, suspend or terminate the relationship.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

Gardeners South Wimbledon carries out proportionate and risk-based monitoring of key suppliers. This may include on-site visits where feasible, reviews of documentation relating to employment practices, and discussions with management about labour standards. We prioritise higher-risk categories of supply, such as those involving low-skilled or seasonal labour, imported products and outsourced services.

Where additional assurance is needed, we may request evidence of compliance with recognised labour standards or external audits carried out by independent bodies. Our aim is to foster transparency and continuous improvement, rather than solely relying on one-off checks.

Training, Awareness and Reporting Channels

We provide appropriate guidance and awareness-raising for staff, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management and site supervision. This includes information on identifying warning signs of modern slavery and the steps to take if concerns arise.

Gardeners South Wimbledon encourages anyone working for or with us to report suspicions of modern slavery or unethical labour practices without fear of retaliation. Concerns can be raised directly with a line manager or with senior management. All reports are treated seriously, handled sensitively and investigated promptly. Where appropriate, we will cooperate fully with law enforcement and other relevant authorities.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process. Gardeners South Wimbledon is committed to continually improving our policies, procedures and oversight mechanisms. Each year, senior management will review this Modern Slavery Statement, assess the effectiveness of our actions and consider any changes required in light of emerging risks, new legislation or lessons learned.

This statement is approved by the management of Gardeners South Wimbledon and will be reviewed and updated on an annual basis to reflect our continuing commitment to combat modern slavery and human trafficking in all its forms.