Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Elmstead Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Gardeners Elmstead in respect of the financial year ending 31 December and sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. Gardeners Elmstead is committed to conducting business ethically and responsibly, and we recognise our duty to safeguard the rights and wellbeing of all individuals who contribute to our services.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Elmstead has a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, servitude, child labour, and any form of exploitation. We will not knowingly engage with any supplier, contractor, or business partner involved in such practices. Where credible concerns arise, we will investigate promptly and take decisive action, which may include suspending or terminating relationships and reporting matters to the relevant authorities where appropriate.

All colleagues, regardless of their role or seniority, are expected to uphold this commitment. We strive to foster a culture in which respect for human rights is embedded in everyday decisions and behaviours.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners Elmstead provides gardening and related landscape services. Our supply chains include the sourcing of plants, soils, aggregates, tools, equipment, protective clothing, and other materials required to deliver our services. We also engage contractors and service providers for specialist tasks from time to time.

We recognise that certain sectors and regions pose a higher risk of labour exploitation. As a result, we aim to prioritise transparency and due diligence in those parts of our supply chain that may present increased vulnerability.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers and contractors to share our commitment to ethical working practices. Our supplier standards require adherence to all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws, as well as alignment with our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery. We expect suppliers to ensure that their own supply chains are free from forced, bonded, or trafficked labour.

To support this, we are implementing risk-based supplier audits and assessments. These may include requests for information on labour practices, site visits where appropriate, and verification of compliance with relevant regulations. Where non-compliance or serious concerns are identified, we will work with the supplier to develop corrective actions within clear timeframes. Failure to make satisfactory improvements may result in the ending of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Elmstead encourages all employees, contractors, and stakeholders to raise any concerns relating to modern slavery, human trafficking, or unethical labour practices. Concerns may include suspected exploitation, unsafe working conditions, withholding of identity documents, or any behaviour that could indicate coercion or abuse.

Reports can be made to management or through established internal reporting channels in line with our whistleblowing principles. We are committed to treating all concerns seriously, investigating them fairly and sensitively, and maintaining confidentiality as far as reasonably possible. We will not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith.

Training and Awareness

To support effective implementation of this Statement, we are working to raise awareness of modern slavery indicators among our staff and relevant contractors. Training and guidance are aimed at enabling individuals to recognise potential signs of exploitation in our operations and supply chains and to understand how to report concerns appropriately.

Monitoring, Accountability, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing this Modern Slavery Statement and related processes sits with the senior management of Gardeners Elmstead. We regularly monitor the effectiveness of our measures and seek opportunities for improvement, including feedback from staff, suppliers, and other stakeholders.

This Statement will be reviewed at least annually to ensure that it remains current, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. The review will consider audit findings, reported concerns, changes in our supply chains, and developments in guidance relating to modern slavery and human rights. Any necessary updates to our policies, procedures, or training will be implemented promptly following the review.

By publishing this Modern Slavery Statement, Gardeners Elmstead reaffirms its commitment to respecting human dignity, promoting fair treatment, and taking active steps to combat modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our business.