Gardeners Edmonton Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions taken by Gardeners Edmonton to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business operations and supply chains. Gardeners Edmonton provides gardening and related services, and we recognise our responsibility to ensure that our activities do not contribute to any form of exploitation.

This statement has been prepared for the financial year ending 31 December and will be reviewed and updated on an annual basis.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Edmonton has a clear and strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, bonded labour, and child labour. We are committed to acting with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships, and to implementing effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery does not take place in any part of our organisation or supply chains.

All employees, contractors, and suppliers are required to comply with this policy. Breaches of this policy by employees may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Breaches by contractors or suppliers may lead to suspension or termination of contracts and the cessation of any business relationship.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chain includes providers of gardening materials, equipment, uniforms, transportation, and professional services. We expect all suppliers to uphold the same high standards of ethical conduct that we apply within our own operations.

Gardeners Edmonton is developing and maintaining a risk-based approach to supplier due diligence. This includes assessing suppliers for potential indicators of modern slavery, such as the use of recruitment fees, lack of transparency in workforce practices, or operations in higher-risk locations, sectors, or labour markets.

We conduct supplier audits and checks where we consider the risk of modern slavery to be higher. These audits may include requesting information about labour practices, recruitment processes, subcontracting, and worker documentation, as well as reviewing policies relating to wages, working hours, and health and safety. Where appropriate, we may require suppliers to complete questionnaires or declarations confirming compliance with our anti-slavery standards.

If any supplier is found to be involved in modern slavery or unable to demonstrate effective controls to prevent it, Gardeners Edmonton will seek immediate remediation and may suspend or terminate the business relationship if satisfactory improvements are not made promptly.

Training, Awareness, and Reporting Channels

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff and key suppliers. Gardeners Edmonton provides guidance to management and relevant employees on recognising signs of exploitation, understanding risk factors, and knowing how to report concerns safely.

Employees, contractors, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices within our business or supply chains. Concerns can be raised directly with line managers or senior management, or via our internal reporting mechanisms, which allow issues to be escalated and reviewed confidentially.

We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. All reports are taken seriously, investigated where appropriate, and addressed with corrective actions.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Gardeners Edmonton recognises that combating modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility that requires continuous improvement. We are committed to regularly reviewing and enhancing our policies, procedures, and practices to reduce the risk of modern slavery and improve transparency within our operations and supply chains.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed every year by senior management. The review will consider changes to legislation, evolving best practice guidance, findings from supplier audits, internal reports, and any incidents or concerns raised. Where necessary, we will update our processes, strengthen our due diligence, and provide additional training to ensure that our approach remains effective and robust.

By maintaining a zero-tolerance policy, conducting targeted supplier audits, providing clear reporting channels, and committing to an annual review, Gardeners Edmonton aims to play a proactive role in preventing modern slavery and promoting ethical employment practices throughout our business and supply chains.