Gardeners Bermondsey Modern Slavery Statement
Gardeners Bermondsey is committed to publishing a Modern Slavery Statement that reflects our zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. This modern slavery statement outlines our policies, due diligence processes and the steps we take to prevent slavery in our operations and supply chains. We recognise the responsibility that comes with being a horticultural employer and provider of landscaping services in the local community, and we take that seriously and transparently.
We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards forced labour, bonded labour, and any form of exploitation. Our anti-slavery statement makes plain that no worker should be required to pay recruitment fees, surrender identity documents, or work under coercion. Every role at Gardeners Bermondsey is subject to checks designed to protect worker rights and dignity, and our hiring and employment practices are audited regularly to ensure compliance.
The slavery and human trafficking statement details our governance arrangements. Senior management and the board review compliance matters and are responsible for enforcement of our Modern Slavery Policy. We maintain contractual clauses with suppliers and subcontractors that require adherence to our anti-slavery expectations, and we require that suppliers maintain equivalent policies. We expect all business partners to demonstrate that they are preventing modern slavery within their own operations.
Due Diligence, Audits and Supplier Monitoring
Gardeners Bermondsey carries out proportionate due diligence on new and existing suppliers to identify and address modern slavery risks. Our supplier audits include site visits, document checks and worker interviews where appropriate. These supplier audits form part of our regular procurement review and are designed to flag risks related to labour conditions, withholding of wages, excessive working hours and unsafe accommodation provided by others.
Where risk indicators arise, we implement remediation plans and track corrective actions to completion. We use a risk-based approach to prioritise audits in higher-risk regions and for categories such as temporary labour, seasonal horticultural workers and third-party logistics. Training for procurement and HR staff ensures that our teams can spot potential indicators of forced labour and escalate issues promptly.
To support transparency we maintain records of supplier assessments and audits. Our approach includes:
- Regular supplier audits and performance reviews;
- Contractual commitments that require suppliers to comply with anti-slavery standards;
- Targeted training for managers on recognising and responding to signs of exploitation.
Reporting Channels, Training and Annual Review
We provide confidential reporting channels for employees and third parties to raise concerns about suspected modern slavery. Reports are investigated by trained personnel and treated with confidentiality and care. Whistleblowing processes are accessible, and we encourage reporting through multiple internal channels so that concerns can be raised safely and without fear of reprisal.
Our staff receive regular training on the signs of modern slavery and their obligations under this anti-slavery statement. This training covers recruitment best-practice, fair payment, hours of work, and the importance of verifying identity and right to work documentation. We also train supervisors on how to respond to disclosures and provide support to affected workers.
Gardeners Bermondsey conducts an annual review of our Modern Slavery Policy and practices. This annual review evaluates the effectiveness of supplier audits, training programmes, reporting channels and remediation efforts. Findings from the review are used to update our policies, refine risk assessments and strengthen our zero-tolerance measures. We publish the outcomes of the annual review internally and ensure that lessons learned inform future action.
In summary, this slavery and human trafficking statement is a core part of our commitment to ethical business. Our combined measures — zero-tolerance stance, supplier audits, secure reporting channels and an annual review cycle — are designed to minimise the risk of modern slavery across Gardeners Bermondsey's operations and supply chains. We will continue to evolve our Modern Slavery Policy to respond to emerging risks and uphold the highest standards of worker protection.
