Gardeners Belgravia Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the approach of Gardeners Belgravia to preventing modern slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold fundamental human rights and to act ethically in every aspect of our business.
Gardeners Belgravia operates within the horticultural and gardening services sector. Our activities rely on a network of suppliers and subcontractors who provide plants, materials, equipment, and specialist services. We are committed to working only with partners who share our values and can demonstrate their own robust safeguards against modern slavery.
Zero-Tolerance Policy
Gardeners Belgravia maintains a clear zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery. We do not accept any form of forced, bonded, or trafficked labour, nor any practices that exploit vulnerable individuals or restrict their freedom. This applies to all employees, contractors, agency workers, and any individuals working within our supply chains.
Our zero-tolerance policy is communicated internally and externally. All colleagues with responsibility for procurement, project management, and site supervision are expected to understand and apply this policy in their day-to-day decisions. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious disciplinary and contractual matter, which may result in termination of employment or business relationships.
Responsible Procurement and Supplier Standards
We are committed to integrating ethical considerations into our procurement processes. When selecting new suppliers, we consider their labour practices, transparency, and governance. Where appropriate, we seek confirmation that suppliers have their own policies and procedures to prevent modern slavery and that they comply with applicable labour and human rights legislation.
Our supplier expectations include fair recruitment, payment of wages in line with legal requirements, safe working conditions, and respect for workers' freedom of movement. We avoid working with any supplier where we have reason to believe modern slavery risks are not being adequately managed.
Supplier Audits and Monitoring
To support our zero-tolerance approach, Gardeners Belgravia undertakes proportionate supplier audits and monitoring activities. These may include requesting documented evidence of labour practices, conducting site visits, reviewing workforce arrangements, and engaging directly with management about their controls and due diligence.
Where higher risk is identified due to geography, sector, or labour profile, we may increase the level of scrutiny, require corrective action plans, or decline to enter into or renew contracts. We keep records of the findings of our audits and use them to inform our broader risk assessment and mitigation strategies.
Staff Awareness, Training, and Responsibility
All managers with responsibility for hiring, supervising, or commissioning work are expected to be vigilant for signs of modern slavery. We promote awareness of typical indicators, such as workers who appear fearful, controlled by others, or unable to speak freely about their conditions.
Relevant staff receive guidance on how to assess modern slavery risks in suppliers and subcontractors. Responsibility for implementing this statement sits with the senior management team, which provides oversight and ensures that appropriate resources are allocated to risk management and compliance.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Gardeners Belgravia encourages anyone with concerns about potential modern slavery, either within our organisation or our supply chains, to report them as soon as possible. Concerns can be raised through internal management lines or via our established whistleblowing channels. Reports may be made confidentially, and individuals raising concerns will not face victimisation or retaliation for doing so in good faith.
All reports are taken seriously and investigated promptly. Where appropriate, we will engage with relevant authorities and specialist organisations. If a case of modern slavery is identified, we will act immediately to protect affected individuals and to end any abusive practices. We will also review our procedures to prevent recurrence.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Gardeners Belgravia recognises that the risks of modern slavery can evolve over time, particularly as supply chains change and new services are introduced. We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach, regularly reviewing our policies, risk assessments, and controls.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by senior management. As part of that review, we consider feedback from audits, any issues or incidents reported, changes in legislation, and emerging good practice. Where necessary, we update our procedures, training, and supplier engagement activities to strengthen our safeguards.
This statement represents our ongoing commitment to combatting modern slavery and to promoting dignity, respect, and fairness across all aspects of Gardeners Belgravia's operations and supply chains.
