Gardeners Islington Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Gardeners Islington in respect of our financial year and sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains. Gardeners Islington provides gardening and grounds maintenance services and recognises that, although our operations are relatively local and skilled, the risk of exploitation can exist at any stage of the supply chain. We are committed to identifying, preventing, and addressing these risks wherever they occur.
Modern slavery includes slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking. We understand that these abuses can be hidden and complex, often involving vulnerable workers, recruitment intermediaries, and layered subcontracting. As an ethical employer and service provider, we take our responsibility seriously and strive to ensure that the people who work for us, and with us, are treated with dignity and respect.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
Gardeners Islington operates a clear zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly work with any organisation or individual involved in such practices. Our policy applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers who provide goods or services to our business.
This zero-tolerance stance is embedded in our internal policies, codes of conduct, and supplier expectations. Any suspected breach is treated as a serious disciplinary and contractual matter and may lead to termination of employment or business relationships, and, where appropriate, referral to the relevant authorities.
Due Diligence and Supplier Audits
We recognise that the greatest risk of modern slavery may sit within complex supply chains rather than our directly employed workforce. To address this, Gardeners Islington undertakes proportionate due diligence when engaging new suppliers and when reviewing existing relationships. We assess suppliers on factors such as their location, the type of labour they use, and the nature of the goods or services provided.
Our approach includes obtaining confirmations that suppliers comply with applicable labour laws and do not engage in forced, bonded, or involuntary labour. Where appropriate, we request copies of relevant policies or statements and seek assurances that similar standards are applied further down their own supply chains.
Gardeners Islington also carries out periodic supplier audits, which may include site visits, document checks, and discussions with management about recruitment practices, working hours, and wage payments. If our audits raise concerns, we will work with the supplier to develop a corrective action plan and monitor progress. If improvements are not made within an agreed timeframe, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels
We encourage all employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to speak up if they suspect any form of modern slavery connected to Gardeners Islington. Concerns can be raised with line managers or senior management, or through any established whistleblowing mechanisms within our organisation.
Reports may include concerns about working conditions, recruitment fees, retention of identity documents, intimidation, or restrictions on movement. All concerns raised in good faith will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and handled as sensitively as possible. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern, even if it is not substantiated after investigation.
Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement
To ensure our zero-tolerance approach is understood and implemented, Gardeners Islington provides relevant information and training to managers and staff involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management. This includes explaining the signs of modern slavery, the risks in our sector, and how to report concerns.
We review our practices regularly to improve our ability to prevent and detect exploitation. This may involve updating policies, refining our supplier questionnaires, improving audit processes, and sharing lessons learned from investigations or industry developments. We also consider feedback from staff and suppliers as part of this continuous improvement process.
Annual Review and Approval
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with relevant legislation and best practice. As part of the annual review, we evaluate the effectiveness of our actions, reflect on any reported concerns or incidents, and identify further steps we can take to strengthen our approach.
The statement is approved by the leadership of Gardeners Islington, who are responsible for its implementation and for ensuring that adequate resources are allocated to maintain our commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains.
