Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Brent Park Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Gardeners Brent Park in respect of the financial year ending 31 March and sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. Gardeners Brent Park operates in the gardening, landscaping, and grounds maintenance sector, working with a range of suppliers, subcontractors, and seasonal workers.

We recognise that modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights. It can take many forms, including forced labour, debt bondage, servitude, child labour, and human trafficking. We are committed to acting ethically, with integrity and transparency in all our business dealings, and to putting effective systems and controls in place to safeguard against any form of modern slavery.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Brent Park has a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not accept the use of forced, compulsory, or trafficked labour in any part of our operations or supply chains. We expect the same high standards from all those we work with, including suppliers, subcontractors, and labour providers.

Our zero-tolerance policy is embedded in our internal procedures and forms part of the expectations we communicate to existing and prospective suppliers. Any breach, or suspected breach, of this policy will be treated as a serious matter, which may result in the termination of contracts or working relationships and, where appropriate, reporting to the relevant authorities.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Audits

Our supply chains include providers of plants, materials, tools, machinery, uniforms, logistics, and labour. While our operations are primarily based in the United Kingdom, we acknowledge that elements of our supply chain may extend internationally. This can increase the risk of labour exploitation if not carefully managed.

To address these risks, Gardeners Brent Park is developing and implementing a structured programme of supplier due diligence and audits. New key suppliers are subject to an approval process that includes assessment of their labour practices, policies on modern slavery, and compliance with applicable laws. Existing suppliers may be asked to complete questionnaires confirming their adherence to anti-slavery principles and, where appropriate, provide supporting documentation.

We may conduct onsite or remote audits of higher-risk suppliers, focusing on working conditions, recruitment methods, and payment practices. Where non-compliance or areas of concern are identified, we will work with suppliers to agree corrective action plans within defined timeframes. Failure to implement agreed improvements may lead to a review or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Brent Park encourages all staff, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns may include suspicion of forced labour, coercive recruitment practices, retention of identity documents, withholding of wages, or unsafe living and working conditions.

Reports can be made to line managers or senior management, and individuals are encouraged to raise concerns as early as possible. We are committed to ensuring that anyone who raises a concern in good faith is protected from retaliation or detrimental treatment. All reports will be treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively, with confidentiality respected as far as possible.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities

Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery approach sits with senior management, who ensure that relevant policies, procedures, and controls are implemented and maintained. Managers involved in procurement and recruitment receive guidance to help them identify potential indicators of modern slavery and to act appropriately if concerns arise.

We aim to increase awareness across our workforce by sharing information about the signs of modern slavery and the procedures for reporting concerns. As our programme develops, we will expand training and communication initiatives to further strengthen our prevention efforts.

Monitoring, Annual Review, and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Brent Park is committed to continuous improvement in our efforts to prevent modern slavery. We monitor the effectiveness of our measures through the outcomes of supplier due diligence, audit findings, reported concerns, and feedback from staff and stakeholders.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by senior management to ensure it remains accurate, relevant, and aligned with best practice and legal requirements. As part of this review, we will assess our progress, identify areas for enhancement, and update our procedures as necessary. Our goal is to build increasingly robust safeguards that protect individuals from exploitation and ensure that our services are delivered responsibly and ethically.

This statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Brent Park and will be updated each year to reflect our ongoing commitment to combating modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains.