Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Brent Park
Gardeners Brent Park is committed to conducting every aspect of our gardening operations ethically, responsibly, and with full respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, and any form of exploitation within our business and supply chain. We recognise that even in horticulture and grounds maintenance, risks can exist in recruitment, subcontracting, seasonal work, and the sourcing of goods and materials.
Our zero-tolerance policy is clear: we do not accept modern slavery in any form. Gardeners Brent Park requires all staff, contractors, and suppliers to uphold lawful employment practices, fair wages, safe working conditions, and the freedom for workers to leave employment in accordance with the law. This commitment applies across planting, pruning, landscaping, waste handling, and procurement activities linked to the Brent Park gardening service.
We maintain robust checks to reduce the likelihood of exploitation entering our operations. Before engaging a supplier, we assess their labour practices, recruitment methods, and compliance history. As part of our due diligence, we may request written assurances, contractual clauses, and evidence of lawful working arrangements. When risks are identified, we take proportionate action, which can include remediation plans, closer monitoring, or ending the relationship where necessary.
Supplier oversight is a central part of our approach. Gardeners Brent Park carries out supplier audits on a risk-based schedule, focusing on businesses involved in high-risk services or labour-intensive work. These audits may include document reviews, site visits, worker welfare checks, and confirmation that subcontractors meet the same standards we expect from direct suppliers. We record findings carefully and follow up on any non-compliance until concerns are resolved.
Our procurement process is designed to promote transparency from the start. We ask suppliers of tools, soil, plants, uniforms, and maintenance services to confirm that they do not use child labour, unlawful deductions, confiscation of identity documents, or coercive recruitment fees. Where appropriate, we include contractual obligations requiring suppliers to apply the same ethical standards throughout their own supply chains. This helps strengthen accountability and supports responsible purchasing decisions.
Equally important are our reporting channels, which allow concerns to be raised safely and without fear of retaliation. Staff and workers are encouraged to report suspected abuse, unsafe practices, or signs of exploitation through internal management routes or formal whistleblowing procedures. Reports are treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled with confidentiality where possible. We believe that early reporting is essential to protecting vulnerable workers and preventing harm from continuing.
Gardeners Brent Park also invests in awareness and training so that our team can recognise warning signs such as restricted movement, unusual control by supervisors, excessive overtime, or poor living conditions linked to employment. Managers with responsibility for recruitment, purchasing, and contractor oversight receive guidance on identifying risk and escalating concerns. This helps us build a culture where ethical conduct is expected and modern slavery is actively challenged.
Our response framework is designed to act quickly and decisively. If we suspect a violation, we investigate, protect potential victims, and cooperate with relevant authorities or specialist support organisations where appropriate. We do not tolerate retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. Respect, dignity, and lawful treatment are non-negotiable principles in our service delivery and in the relationships we maintain with suppliers.
This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, current, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. Gardeners Brent Park evaluates progress against our policies, audit outcomes, supplier performance, and any incidents or reports received during the year. Updates may lead to stronger controls, revised contracts, or additional training. Through continuous review, we reinforce our commitment to ethical gardening operations and a supply chain free from modern slavery.