Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Petts Wood

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Petts Wood to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights, and we are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Petts Wood operates a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, forced labour, child labour, servitude, and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with, support, or benefit from any arrangement in which people are deprived of their freedom for personal or commercial gain.

This policy applies to all individuals working for or on behalf of Gardeners Petts Wood at every level, including employees, contractors, agency workers, volunteers, suppliers, and other business partners. Compliance with this policy is a condition of working with or for Gardeners Petts Wood, and any breach may result in termination of employment or business relationships.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Expectations

Our supply chains include providers of plants and gardening products, equipment, uniforms, transport, and other goods and services that support our operations. We expect all suppliers to uphold the same high standards that we set for ourselves and to comply with all relevant labour, employment, and human rights legislation.

Suppliers are required to ensure that they do not use forced, bonded, or involuntary labour; do not employ workers under the legal minimum age; provide safe and decent working conditions; and treat workers with dignity and respect. We expect suppliers to cascade these standards through their own supply chains.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

To support our zero-tolerance stance, Gardeners Petts Wood undertakes proportionate due diligence and audit activities in relation to suppliers and business partners. This includes assessing the risk of modern slavery in particular categories of goods, services, and geographic regions, evaluating supplier policies and practices, and reviewing available evidence regarding labour standards.

Where appropriate, we may conduct on-site visits or request supporting documentation to verify that suppliers meet our ethical expectations. If concerns are identified, we will work with the supplier to implement corrective actions within a reasonable timeframe. Where a supplier is unwilling or unable to meet our standards, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Raising Concerns

Gardeners Petts Wood encourages anyone who has concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices in our operations or supply chains to raise them without delay. Concerns can be reported through internal management channels or directly to senior leadership. Reports may be made anonymously where this is legally permissible.

We will take all concerns seriously and will investigate them promptly, fairly, and sensitively. We will not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith, whether or not it is ultimately substantiated. Where appropriate, we will cooperate with law enforcement and relevant authorities.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our employees and key suppliers. Relevant staff receive information on recognising indicators of modern slavery, understanding our policies, and knowing how to report concerns. We review our practices to identify opportunities to strengthen our approach in line with evolving best practice and legislation.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery sits with the leadership of Gardeners Petts Wood. They monitor the effectiveness of our policies, due diligence processes, and response to any incidents or concerns. Key findings and improvement actions are documented and used to enhance our controls.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once a year to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with legal and regulatory requirements. As part of the annual review, we assess changes in our operations and supply chains, evaluate the effectiveness of our audits and training, and update our actions where needed to further reduce the risk of modern slavery.

This statement reflects the position of Gardeners Petts Wood for the most recent financial year and has been approved by the leadership of the business.