Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Beckton Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Beckton to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting our business ethically, transparently, and with respect for the dignity and rights of every individual who contributes to our services.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Beckton maintains a clear and uncompromising zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. We do not tolerate any practice that exploits people, restricts their freedom, or undermines their fundamental human rights, whether within our own business or in any organisation with which we work.

This commitment applies to all directors, employees, temporary staff, and contractors. It also extends to our suppliers, subcontractors, and other business partners. Any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery connected to our operations will be treated as a serious breach of our standards and will result in decisive action, including termination of contracts where appropriate.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chain includes providers of horticultural products, gardening materials, tools, equipment, protective clothing, transport services, and related support services. Gardeners Beckton expects every supplier to operate in full compliance with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws, and to uphold ethical working practices at all times.

We seek to work only with suppliers who share our values and demonstrate a clear commitment to preventing modern slavery. To support this, we undertake proportionate due diligence on new and existing suppliers. This may involve pre-engagement questionnaires, review of policies and procedures, and assessment of their own supply chain standards.

Gardeners Beckton reserves the right to carry out supplier audits, which may be conducted on-site or remotely, to verify compliance with our expectations. Where issues are identified, we will work with suppliers to develop corrective action plans and set realistic timescales for improvement. In cases where a supplier fails to engage constructively or refuses to address concerns, we will consider ending our business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone connected with Gardeners Beckton, including employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers, to speak up if they have concerns that modern slavery or related abuses may be taking place. No individual should ever feel that they cannot raise a concern in good faith.

Concerns can be reported to line managers, senior management, or through any internal reporting channel made available by Gardeners Beckton. Reports will be treated sensitively, handled as confidentially as reasonably possible, and investigated promptly and thoroughly. We do not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern honestly, even if it is not ultimately substantiated.

Where appropriate, we will cooperate with relevant authorities and agencies to support investigations into suspected cases of modern slavery connected to our operations or supply chains.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Beckton is committed to increasing awareness of the risks of modern slavery among our staff and, where relevant, among our suppliers. We provide guidance to managers and staff on recognising possible indicators of exploitation and on how to respond appropriately to potential concerns.

We recognise that the risks of modern slavery can evolve over time, particularly in extended or international supply chains. We therefore aim to review our processes regularly and adapt our approach as necessary to address emerging risks, sector developments, and updates in good practice.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our efforts to combat modern slavery sits with the senior management of Gardeners Beckton. They ensure that this Statement is implemented effectively, that appropriate procedures are in place, and that performance in this area is monitored.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure that it remains accurate, relevant, and reflective of our current activities and risk profile. As part of the annual review, we consider the effectiveness of our due diligence, supplier engagement, training efforts, and reporting mechanisms. Where improvements are identified, we will update our policies and practices accordingly.

By maintaining a clear zero-tolerance stance, engaging proactively with our suppliers, promoting open reporting, and committing to regular review, Gardeners Beckton seeks to play a responsible role in the wider effort to eliminate modern slavery and human trafficking.