Modern Slavery Statement
Gardeners Paddington Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Gardeners Paddington in respect of the financial year ending 31 December and sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Gardeners Paddington is committed to conducting business ethically and responsibly, ensuring that the welfare, safety, and dignity of all workers are protected.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
Gardeners Paddington has a strict zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, debt bondage, servitude, human trafficking, and child labour. We do not tolerate such practices in any part of our business or supply chain. All employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to adhere to this policy as a condition of working with us.
Our internal policies, including those covering recruitment, working conditions, equality, and whistleblowing, are designed to uphold human rights and ensure that all individuals working for or on behalf of Gardeners Paddington are treated fairly and lawfully. We seek to work only with partners who share our values and comply with applicable labour and employment laws.
Our Supply Chains and Risk Management
Gardeners Paddington sources goods and services related to gardening, landscaping, maintenance, equipment, and associated business support services. We recognise that certain sectors and regions may present higher risks of modern slavery. We therefore take a risk-based approach, focusing additional scrutiny on suppliers and activities where the likelihood of labour exploitation may be higher.
Our supplier selection process includes an assessment of ethical standards, labour practices, and compliance with modern slavery legislation. We reserve the right to discontinue relationships with any supplier or contractor that fails to meet our expectations or is found to be involved in modern slavery or human trafficking.
Supplier Audits and Due Diligence
Gardeners Paddington undertakes due diligence on key suppliers, particularly those providing labour-intensive services or sourcing materials from higher risk regions. This due diligence may include requesting information about working conditions, employment policies, recruitment practices, and the use of subcontractors.
Where appropriate, we conduct or commission audits of suppliers to verify compliance with our standards. These audits may be announced or unannounced and can include site visits, document reviews, and worker interviews. If non-compliance is identified, we will work with the supplier to implement corrective actions within a defined timeframe. Continued non-compliance or serious breaches may result in the termination of the business relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Gardeners Paddington encourages all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers to report any concerns relating to modern slavery or human trafficking. Concerns may include suspected exploitation, unsafe working conditions, unlawful recruitment fees, retention of identity documents, or any form of coercion.
Reports can be made to a manager or designated senior contact within Gardeners Paddington, or through our internal whistleblowing procedures. We treat all reports seriously and investigate them promptly, ensuring that individuals who raise concerns in good faith do not suffer retaliation or detrimental treatment. Where appropriate, matters may be escalated to external authorities or specialist organisations.
Training and Awareness
We recognise that awareness and understanding are critical to preventing modern slavery. Gardeners Paddington provides relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and on-site supervision, with information and guidance on identifying signs of modern slavery and the appropriate steps for raising concerns.
We aim to foster a culture in which respect for human rights is embedded in daily decision-making and where employees feel confident to challenge any practices that may be exploitative or unethical.
Monitoring, Annual Review, and Continuous Improvement
Gardeners Paddington is committed to continual improvement in our efforts to combat modern slavery. We monitor the effectiveness of our policies, processes, and supplier oversight through periodic reviews of incidents, audit findings, and feedback from stakeholders.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the leadership of Gardeners Paddington to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. Any necessary updates to policies, training, or supplier management processes will be implemented as part of this review. By approving and publishing this statement, Gardeners Paddington reaffirms its commitment to preventing modern slavery and protecting the rights and wellbeing of all individuals connected to our business and supply chains.
