Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Homerton

At Gardeners Homerton, we are committed to conducting business with integrity, dignity, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out our zero-tolerance approach to all forms of forced labour, human trafficking, servitude, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that gardening and grounds maintenance services can involve multiple contractors, seasonal workers, and product suppliers, so vigilance is essential. Our policy applies to every part of our activity, from recruitment and onboarding to procurement and subcontracting.

We define modern slavery broadly, covering any situation where a person is controlled through coercion, deception, debt bondage, or abuse of vulnerability. Gardeners Homerton will not knowingly engage with any individual, supplier, or partner linked to such practices. All managers are responsible for embedding this standard into daily decision-making, while workers are expected to uphold ethical conduct and report concerns without delay. We also ensure that employment practices are fair, lawful, and transparent, with no retention of identity documents, no unlawful deductions, and no pressure placed on workers to remain in employment.

Our procurement approach is designed to reduce risk and strengthen accountability across the supply chain. Before appointing a supplier, Gardeners Homerton carries out appropriate due diligence, including checks on labour practices, business ownership, and the geographic or sector-specific risk profile of the goods or services involved. High-risk suppliers may be subject to enhanced review, site visits, and document requests. Where concerns arise, we may suspend, remediate, or end the relationship if required.

Supplier monitoring continues after onboarding. We undertake supplier audits at intervals proportionate to risk, focusing on payroll records, working hours, recruitment methods, subcontracting arrangements, and worker welfare. These audits may be announced or unannounced, depending on the circumstances, and are intended to identify non-compliance early. If a supplier cannot demonstrate acceptable standards, we require corrective action plans with clear deadlines. Persistent failure to improve may result in termination of the contract. This process helps ensure that our garden maintenance and supply activities remain aligned with our ethical standards.

We also promote a culture where concerns can be raised safely. Reporting channels are available to employees, contractors, and suppliers, and anyone who suspects exploitation may use internal reporting routes or escalate concerns to senior management. Reports are handled confidentially and without retaliation. Gardeners Homerton treats every allegation seriously and investigates promptly, with records maintained to support follow-up actions and learning. Workers are informed that they will never be penalised for raising a genuine concern, and managers receive training on how to respond appropriately.

Training is an important part of prevention. Relevant staff receive guidance on identifying warning signs, including restricted movement, poor accommodation conditions, unusual recruitment fees, withholding of wages, or signs that workers are controlled by another party. By strengthening awareness, we improve the chances of early intervention. Our approach to ethical gardening services is built on professionalism, accountability, and respect for individual rights, ensuring that our standards are understood throughout the organisation and reflected in every contract we accept.

We review this statement and our supporting procedures annually to confirm that they remain effective, proportionate, and relevant to current risks. The review considers audit findings, supplier performance, staff training outcomes, incident reports, and any changes in legislation or industry practice. Where improvements are identified, action plans are created and monitored through the year. This annual cycle helps Gardeners Homerton continually strengthen its response to modern slavery risks and maintain a responsible landscaping operation.

This statement reflects the commitment of Gardeners Homerton to act ethically and to support a fair and lawful working environment. We expect the same standards from those we work with, and we will continue to monitor compliance, improve controls, and encourage openness across our operations. Our zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, reporting channels, and annual review process together form the foundation of our effort to prevent exploitation and protect the people connected to our business.