Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Addiscombe

Gardeners Addiscombe is committed to conducting every aspect of its work with integrity, dignity, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the principles and controls that guide our operations, including our zero-tolerance policy toward slavery, servitude, forced labour, and human trafficking. We recognise that even garden maintenance, landscaping, and related supply chains can carry risks if proper standards are not upheld, and we take a proactive approach to preventing exploitation in all forms.

As Gardener Addiscombe continues to serve homes, communal spaces, and local properties, we require ethical conduct from our team members, contractors, and business partners. Our approach is rooted in accountability, with clear expectations for responsible sourcing, fair treatment, and lawful employment practices. We believe that good horticultural services should never come at the expense of vulnerable people or unsafe working conditions.

This statement applies across our business activities, from selecting materials and equipment to using third-party suppliers and subcontractors. We expect every person representing Gardeners in Addiscombe to understand the signs of exploitation and to act immediately if concerns arise. We also aim to ensure that our purchasing decisions support businesses that share our commitment to ethical labour standards.

Our zero-tolerance policy is central to our values. No member of the organisation may engage in, ignore, or benefit from any practice linked to modern slavery. Any breach of this policy may lead to disciplinary action, contract termination, or referral to relevant authorities where appropriate. We also expect our suppliers to maintain transparent labour practices and to verify the legality of their workforce arrangements.

To reduce risk, we carry out supplier audits and assessments on a regular basis. These checks may include reviewing labour policies, employment records, subcontracting arrangements, and evidence of compliance with applicable laws. Where risks are identified, we request corrective action and may suspend or end the relationship if improvements are not made. Our supplier audit process is designed to support continuous improvement while protecting worker welfare.

We also review high-risk areas within our operations, including seasonal labour, transport arrangements, and any services delivered through third parties. By taking a structured and consistent approach, Gardener Addiscombe seeks to ensure that modern slavery does not enter our business through indirect or hidden channels. Prevention is more effective than response alone, so due diligence remains an essential part of our governance.

Reporting channels are an important part of our safeguarding framework. Team members, suppliers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to raise concerns promptly if they suspect exploitation, coercion, withheld wages, unsafe accommodation, identity document retention, or any other sign of abuse. Reports are handled seriously, sensitively, and without unnecessary delay, and we strive to protect those who raise concerns from retaliation or disadvantage.

We foster a culture where speaking up is supported. Managers are expected to listen carefully, document issues accurately, and escalate concerns through the appropriate internal process. Where needed, concerns may trigger additional review of supplier relationships, working conditions, or recruitment practices. In this way, Gardeners Addiscombe aims to maintain a safe and lawful operating environment for everyone involved.

Training and awareness also play a role in our response. Relevant staff members receive guidance on recognising warning signs and understanding how to report concerns responsibly. This helps ensure that our policies are not only written down, but actively applied in day-to-day work. Ethical practice is a shared responsibility, and each person has a part to play in maintaining it.

We are committed to an annual review of this statement and of the controls that support it. Each year, we assess the effectiveness of our policy, supplier checks, reporting routes, and corrective actions to determine whether further improvement is needed. This review considers operational changes, supply chain developments, and any lessons learned from internal monitoring or external issues.

The annual review allows us to strengthen our processes and remain aligned with evolving expectations around human rights and labour standards. If gaps are identified, we update our procedures, improve oversight, and reinforce responsibilities across the business. For Gardeners Addiscombe, this is not a one-time commitment but an ongoing duty to act responsibly, transparently, and with respect for people throughout every stage of our work.

Our Commitment

Ethical practice in every service

Gardeners Addiscombe will continue to uphold this statement through vigilance, accountability, and a clear refusal to tolerate exploitation in any form. By combining strong internal standards with supplier audits, reporting channels, and annual review, we aim to protect workers and preserve trust in our services.