Gardeners Sanderstead Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Sanderstead takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business relationships, ensuring that exploitation has no place in our organisation or among those who work with us.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Sanderstead adopts a clear zero-tolerance policy towards any form of modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, or child labour. This applies to all areas of our business, including direct employees, contractors, temporary workers, and all suppliers, whether local or international.

We expect everyone who works for or with us to uphold this commitment. Any indication that modern slavery may be occurring in connection with our business will be treated with utmost seriousness. We reserve the right to suspend or terminate relationships with any party that fails to meet our standards or refuses to cooperate with investigations.

Responsibilities and Governance

The senior management team at Gardeners Sanderstead is responsible for overseeing our approach to modern slavery and ensuring that appropriate policies, procedures, and training are in place. Managers at all levels are responsible for promoting awareness of this Statement and for embedding our zero-tolerance culture within their teams.

All employees are required to familiarise themselves with this Statement and to act in accordance with it. This includes remaining alert to the risk of modern slavery in any part of our operations or supply chains and reporting any concerns promptly.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We recognise that the greatest risks of modern slavery often arise within supply chains. Gardeners Sanderstead works only with suppliers and subcontractors who share our values and agree to operate in line with our ethical standards and applicable laws.

As part of our supplier due diligence, we assess prospective suppliers on their labour practices, working conditions, and compliance with relevant legislation. Where appropriate, we may request written confirmations of compliance, evidence of labour policies, and details of how risks of exploitation are managed.

We reserve the right to conduct audits or request third-party audits of suppliers where we consider the risk profile to be higher, or if concerns are raised. If a supplier is found to be involved in modern slavery or unable to demonstrate effective controls, we will seek immediate corrective actions and may discontinue the relationship if satisfactory improvements are not made promptly.

Reporting Concerns and Protection

Gardeners Sanderstead encourages all employees, workers, contractors, and suppliers to speak up if they suspect any form of modern slavery, however minor it may appear. Concerns can be raised through normal management channels or by escalating directly to senior management where appropriate.

We will investigate all reports sensitively, fairly, and as confidentially as possible. No person who raises a concern in good faith will suffer detrimental treatment as a result. Retaliation against anyone who reports a genuine concern is strictly prohibited and will be treated as a disciplinary matter.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks across our workforce. Where relevant to their roles, employees receive information and guidance on identifying signs of exploitation, understanding our policies, and knowing how to respond to concerns.

Management and those involved in procurement or supplier oversight receive additional guidance on assessing risk, conducting due diligence, and applying our zero-tolerance standards consistently.

Monitoring and Annual Review

Gardeners Sanderstead understands that combating modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We continuously review our practices and seek opportunities to strengthen our controls, particularly in relation to suppliers and subcontractors.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every year by senior management to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. Where necessary, we update our policies, procedures, and training to address emerging risks or lessons learned.

By maintaining clear standards, engaging proactively with suppliers, and encouraging open reporting, Gardeners Sanderstead aims to play a responsible role in preventing modern slavery and protecting the rights and dignity of all workers connected to our business.