Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Barnsbury

Gardeners Barnsbury is committed to conducting all aspects of its operations with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the principles and practices we follow to help prevent slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our own business and across our supply chain. We recognise that responsibility does not end at our immediate team; it extends to every supplier, contractor, and partner associated with Gardeners Barnsbury.

Our position is clear: zero tolerance for any form of modern slavery. We expect the same standard from every organisation we work with, and we will not knowingly engage with suppliers that fail to meet lawful and ethical employment practices. This approach applies to seasonal work, subcontracted services, procurement, and the sourcing of goods and materials used by Barnsbury gardeners.

We support a culture where concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation. All workers, managers, and third parties are encouraged to report suspicious activity, unsafe conditions, restricted movement, withheld wages, document retention, or any sign that an individual may be exploited. Reporting channels are designed to be accessible, confidential, and taken seriously, ensuring that concerns are reviewed promptly and escalated where required.

Supply Chain Responsibility

To reduce risk, Gardeners Barnsbury applies supplier due diligence before relationships begin and continues monitoring throughout the engagement. We carry out proportionate supplier audits based on risk, geography, and the nature of the service or product provided. Where appropriate, we review employment records, subcontracting arrangements, payment practices, right-to-work checks, and evidence of compliance with labour standards.

When concerns are identified, we seek immediate clarification and corrective action. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to address an issue, we may suspend orders, terminate the relationship, or report the matter to the relevant authorities. These measures are part of our broader commitment to responsible purchasing and to maintaining ethical standards across Gardeners Barnsbury and its operations.

Our procurement process also includes a review of supplier declarations, contractual commitments, and any available evidence relating to worker welfare. We require suppliers to understand that ethical conduct is not optional. Gardeners Barnsbury will continue to strengthen oversight so that risks are identified early and addressed decisively.

Training, Awareness, and Accountability

We believe that prevention depends on awareness. Staff involved in hiring, purchasing, and contractor management receive guidance on recognising indicators of modern slavery and on applying the correct internal escalation process. This includes identifying coercion, debt bondage, signs of restriction, unusual control over documents, and other indicators of abuse. Our internal expectations are reinforced through policy updates and operational checks.

Accountability sits with leadership, who are responsible for ensuring that our standards are implemented consistently. Managers are expected to act on concerns, document actions taken, and support any investigation required. Modern slavery risks are reviewed as part of our wider compliance and governance activity, ensuring that the issue remains visible rather than treated as a one-off concern.

We also seek to embed ethical conduct into our supplier relationships through clear contract terms and ongoing communication. If a risk is identified, we work with the relevant party to understand the problem and determine an appropriate response. The goal is not only compliance, but meaningful prevention of harm within the Gardeners Barnsbury network.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with current legislation and operational risk. Each review considers supplier performance, any reported concerns, audit findings, and changes in the labour market or sourcing arrangements. Where necessary, we revise procedures, strengthen controls, and update training materials.

The annual review also allows us to assess whether our reporting channels remain accessible and whether our supplier audits are sufficiently robust. We view continuous improvement as essential to responsible business practice. By reviewing outcomes each year, Gardeners Barnsbury can respond to emerging risks and reinforce a safer, fairer supply chain.

Gardeners Barnsbury will continue to uphold its zero-tolerance policy and promote ethical working practices across every part of its business. We are committed to vigilance, accountability, and action, ensuring that our standards support the dignity and rights of all workers connected to our activities.