Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Barnsbury to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Gardeners Barnsbury is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard the rights and wellbeing of all workers connected to our activities.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Barnsbury maintains a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, human trafficking, child labour that is exploitative or unlawful, and any other practice that deprives individuals of their freedom or dignity. We expect the same high standards from all of our suppliers, contractors, consultants, and business partners.

No business imperative, commercial pressure, or operational challenge justifies any departure from this policy. Any actual or suspected instance of modern slavery associated with our business will be treated as a serious breach of our values and may lead to the termination of relationships with those responsible, alongside any reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our Operations and Supply Chain

Gardeners Barnsbury provides gardening and related services, working with a range of suppliers for plants, materials, equipment, and support services. While much of our workforce is directly engaged by us, we recognise that modern slavery risks can exist deeper within supply chains, particularly where multiple tiers of subcontracting or international sourcing are involved.

We are committed to understanding these risks and taking proportionate and effective action to manage and reduce them over time. This includes focusing on areas where there may be a higher risk of labour exploitation, such as seasonal work, low-wage sectors, or complex procurement routes.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We require our suppliers and contractors to uphold labour and human rights standards that are consistent with our zero-tolerance policy. This includes compliance with applicable employment, health and safety, and human rights legislation in the countries where they operate, and the prohibition of any form of forced, compulsory, or trafficked labour.

Gardeners Barnsbury carries out proportionate due diligence on suppliers, which may include pre-appointment checks, declarations of compliance, and review of relevant policies and procedures. We reserve the right to undertake audits or request evidence of compliance from suppliers, either directly or via third parties. Where concerns are identified, we will work with suppliers to address issues within clear timescales or, if necessary, end the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

Gardeners Barnsbury encourages all employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to speak up if they suspect any form of modern slavery linked to our business. We are committed to ensuring that concerns can be reported safely, openly, and without fear of retaliation or disadvantage.

Concerns may be raised through line managers, senior management, or other established reporting routes within the business. All reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated in an appropriate and timely manner. Where necessary, we will engage with relevant external agencies or authorities. We will protect, as far as reasonably possible, the confidentiality of those who raise genuine concerns in good faith.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Barnsbury aims to build awareness of modern slavery risks across our workforce, particularly for those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management. We will seek to provide guidance and information so that staff can recognise potential warning signs and understand how to respond to concerns.

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility that requires regular evaluation and improvement. We are committed to reviewing our processes and controls as our business and supply chains evolve, and to improving practices where gaps or weaknesses are identified.

Governance and Annual Review

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is approved by the leadership of Gardeners Barnsbury, who take overall responsibility for ensuring that it is implemented effectively across the business. Management is accountable for monitoring compliance with this statement and for reporting on progress and issues that arise.

The statement will be reviewed at least annually and updated as necessary to reflect changes in our business activities, supply chains, or legal requirements, as well as to incorporate learnings and improvements. Any updates will be communicated internally and made available to interested external stakeholders so that our commitment to combating modern slavery remains transparent and robust.