Gardeners Norbiton Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Norbiton has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking from occurring within our business operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our relationships and to implementing and enforcing systems and controls that seek to ensure modern slavery is not taking place anywhere in our business.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Gardeners Norbiton provides gardening and related services, working with a range of suppliers for plants, materials, equipment, uniforms, transport and ancillary services. Our supply chains include local and regional wholesalers, contractors and service providers. We recognise that modern slavery risks can exist at any stage of these supply chains and we are committed to understanding and addressing those risks in a structured and proportionate way.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

Gardeners Norbiton has a clear zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour and human trafficking. This zero-tolerance policy applies to all staff, agency workers, contractors, suppliers and business partners. We will not knowingly work with any party that engages in or condones such practices, and we reserve the right to terminate relationships where there is evidence or serious suspicion of non-compliance with our standards.

Our management team is responsible for promoting this policy throughout the business, ensuring that ethical conduct and respect for human rights are integrated into our day-to-day operations and decision-making. All employees are expected to act in a way that upholds our values and to challenge any behaviour that is inconsistent with this policy.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We require our suppliers and contractors to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. As part of our procurement and onboarding processes, we assess potential suppliers on their labour practices, working conditions and approach to human rights. We expect suppliers to comply with all relevant legislation and to operate fair employment practices, including the prohibition of forced labour, child labour and any form of exploitation.

Gardeners Norbiton carries out proportionate supplier audits and reviews to monitor compliance. These may include requesting written confirmations of labour practices, reviewing policies and procedures, conducting site visits where appropriate, and asking suppliers to demonstrate how they manage modern slavery risks within their own supply chains. Where issues are identified, we will work with the supplier to agree corrective actions and timescales. If satisfactory improvements are not made, we may suspend or end the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage a culture of openness in which concerns about modern slavery or unethical treatment of workers can be raised and addressed promptly. Employees, agency workers, contractors and suppliers are encouraged to report any suspicions or information relating to modern slavery, whether within Gardeners Norbiton or in our supply chains.

Concerns can be raised directly with line managers or senior management. Issues can also be reported through existing internal reporting channels and whistleblowing arrangements. Reports will be treated seriously and sensitively, and we will take appropriate steps to investigate concerns and, where necessary, refer matters to the relevant authorities. We will not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises concerns in good faith.

Training and Awareness

To support effective implementation of this statement, Gardeners Norbiton promotes awareness of modern slavery risks among relevant staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement and supplier management. Training and guidance are provided so that colleagues can recognise potential indicators of exploitation and understand how to escalate concerns appropriately.

Monitoring and Annual Review

We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires continuous improvement. Gardeners Norbiton monitors the effectiveness of the measures described in this statement by reviewing reported concerns, audit findings, supplier performance and changes in legislation and best practice.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every year by our management team to ensure it remains current, effective and aligned with our operational activities and risk profile. As part of this annual review, we will consider whether additional controls, training, audits or contractual requirements are necessary to strengthen our approach. Updated versions of this statement will reflect any significant changes in our policies or procedures.

This statement has been approved by the management of Gardeners Norbiton and constitutes our Modern Slavery Statement for the relevant financial year.