Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Sanderstead
Gardeners Sanderstead is committed to conducting every part of its business with integrity, dignity, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps taken to prevent slavery, forced labour, servitude, and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that even industries focused on outdoor services can face risks through labour providers, equipment suppliers, transport, and subcontracted work. For that reason, our approach is zero-tolerance: any form of exploitation is unacceptable and will not be ignored.
Our commitment applies to all employees, supervisors, contractors, and Gardeners Sanderstead suppliers. We expect everyone acting on our behalf to share the same values and to uphold ethical standards in recruitment, payment, working hours, and employment conditions. We also expect suppliers to be transparent about their labour practices and to maintain clear evidence that workers are employed lawfully and fairly. Where concerns arise, we act quickly, record findings, and require corrective action without delay.
As part of our due diligence, supplier audits are carried out on a risk-based basis. These audits may include document checks, workforce verification, and a review of subcontracting arrangements to ensure no hidden labour abuses exist. Gardeners Sanderstead reviews higher-risk categories more frequently, especially where seasonal labour, temporary staff, or imported materials are involved. If any supplier fails to meet our expectations, we reserve the right to suspend or end the relationship.
Our internal controls are designed to reduce the risk of exploitation at every stage of service delivery. Managers are responsible for confirming that workers are employed voluntarily, are of legal working age, and receive appropriate pay and rest. We keep records that support compliance, including right-to-work checks and supplier declarations. This oversight helps Gardeners Sanderstead ensure that our operations remain ethical, lawful, and aligned with our values.
Reporting concerns is essential to this policy. Any worker, supplier, or stakeholder who suspects misconduct may raise it through our confidential reporting channels. Concerns can be reported to line management, senior leadership, or the designated safeguarding route within the business, and all reports are handled discreetly. We do not tolerate retaliation against anyone who speaks up in good faith. Every report is reviewed promptly, and appropriate action is taken based on the evidence available.
We also train relevant team members to recognise warning signs of exploitation, such as poor accommodation, excessive control over wages, restricted movement, or unexplained fear among workers. Awareness is especially important in garden services, where labour may be seasonal or shared between sites. By encouraging vigilance and setting clear standards, Gardeners Sanderstead modern slavery statement reinforces a culture where ethical conduct is expected and protected.
Our approach extends beyond compliance and seeks to support fair working practices throughout the supply chain. We expect procurement decisions to consider labour standards alongside quality and cost. Where suppliers cannot demonstrate responsible recruitment and employment, they are required to improve immediately. This process helps maintain trust and ensures that Gardeners Sanderstead does not knowingly benefit from exploitative practices in any form.
We maintain a structured process for reviewing incidents, audit results, and any corrective actions taken. This allows us to track progress over time and identify areas where additional controls may be needed. Annual review is a core part of this statement, ensuring it remains current, effective, and responsive to changes in our business or supply base. The review also considers legislation, industry risks, and the effectiveness of reporting channels.
If gaps are found, we update our controls, strengthen supplier oversight, and refresh training where appropriate. This continuous improvement approach ensures that our anti-slavery commitments are not merely written policy but active business practice. It reflects our belief that responsible gardening services should protect workers at every level and should never contribute to hidden exploitation.
Gardeners Sanderstead reaffirms that modern slavery has no place in our business or in the networks that support it. We will continue to monitor risk, carry out supplier audits, maintain confidential reporting channels, and complete an annual review of this statement. By doing so, we uphold a zero-tolerance policy and demonstrate our long-term commitment to ethical, lawful, and respectful working practices across every aspect of our operations.