Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Downham has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking from occurring within our business operations and supply chains. Gardeners Downham operates in the gardening and outdoor services sector and recognises that even seemingly low-risk industries must remain vigilant in identifying and addressing potential exploitation.

Gardeners Downham is fully committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business dealings and relationships. We expect the same high standards from all those we work with, including employees, contractors, agencies, suppliers, and other business partners. This statement applies to all parts of our organisation and forms a key part of our broader approach to responsible and sustainable business conduct.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

Gardeners Downham has a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking in any form. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation that is involved in or condones such practices. Where any credible concern is identified, we will act quickly to investigate and, if necessary, terminate relationships with individuals or organisations that do not meet our standards.

Our zero-tolerance stance is embedded in our internal policies, supplier expectations, and day-to-day decision-making. Managers are responsible for promoting this culture and ensuring that all teams understand that compliance with modern slavery legislation and our own standards is mandatory and never optional.

Our Supply Chain and Supplier Audits

Gardeners Downham works with a range of suppliers, including those providing plants, materials, tools, equipment, and specialist services. We recognise that risks can arise at different tiers of the supply chain, particularly where seasonal work, low-skilled labour, or sub-contracting are present.

To manage these risks, we conduct proportionate supplier due diligence and audits. This includes assessing suppliers against ethical, labour, and human rights criteria. We may request information on recruitment practices, use of labour agencies, working conditions, and wage arrangements. Where appropriate, we conduct site visits or require written confirmations from suppliers regarding their own modern slavery policies and procedures.

Suppliers are expected to cooperate fully with any audit or information request. Failure to provide adequate information, or evidence of non-compliance, may result in corrective action plans, suspension, or termination of the business relationship. We aim to work collaboratively with suppliers to improve standards, but we will not compromise on fundamental human rights.

Employee Awareness and Reporting Channels

All employees of Gardeners Downham are encouraged and expected to remain alert to potential indicators of modern slavery both within our operations and across our supply chain. We provide information and guidance on recognising signs of exploitation, such as workers appearing fearful, not in control of their identification documents, or being accompanied and monitored by others.

We maintain clear internal reporting channels so that concerns can be raised in confidence without fear of retaliation. Employees can report any suspicion of modern slavery to their line manager or a senior member of the management team. Concerns raised will be treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively. Where appropriate, we will liaise with relevant authorities or specialist organisations to address identified issues.

We make it clear that victimisation of any person who raises a concern in good faith will not be tolerated. Disciplinary action may be taken against any individual who attempts to hinder reporting or investigation processes.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Gardeners Downham understands that addressing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility rather than a one-time exercise. We are committed to continuously improving our approach by learning from experience, updating our risk assessments, and refining our policies and procedures over time.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement will be reviewed annually by our leadership team. As part of the annual review, we will assess the effectiveness of our measures, including supplier audits, staff awareness initiatives, and reporting mechanisms. Where necessary, we will introduce new controls or strengthen existing ones to better manage emerging risks.

By publishing this statement, Gardeners Downham reaffirms its commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking within our business and supply chains, and to working with employees, suppliers, and partners to uphold the dignity and rights of all workers.