Gardeners Neasden Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Neasden is committed to conducting all aspects of its business in an ethical and responsible manner. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights, and we are dedicated to identifying, preventing, and addressing any risks associated with it.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

We have a clear, unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. Gardeners Neasden will not knowingly engage with, support, or do business with any individual or organisation involved in such practices. This commitment applies to all areas of our business, including our employees, contractors, suppliers, and any third parties acting on our behalf.

All colleagues are expected to act with integrity and to uphold our values at all times. Any form of forced, bonded, or compulsory labour is strictly prohibited. We expect all business partners to share this approach and to maintain working conditions that respect the dignity and rights of all workers.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chain includes providers of gardening products, equipment, materials, and related services. We recognise that supply chains can present risks where visibility is reduced, and we therefore apply a risk-based approach to managing and monitoring our suppliers.

Gardeners Neasden requires suppliers to comply with all applicable laws relating to labour, employment, and human rights. Suppliers are expected to confirm that they do not use forced, trafficked, or child labour and that they provide fair working conditions, including safe workplaces and lawful wage practices.

We conduct supplier assessments and audits, focusing particularly on higher risk categories and geographies where modern slavery risks may be elevated. These audits may include, where appropriate, site visits, review of employment records, and discussions with management and workers. When areas for improvement are identified, we work collaboratively with suppliers to implement corrective actions within agreed timeframes. Failure to make adequate improvements or serious breaches of our standards may lead to the suspension or termination of our relationship with the supplier.

Reporting Concerns and Speaking Up

Gardeners Neasden encourages all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns about potential modern slavery or unethical labour practices. We are committed to ensuring that individuals who raise concerns in good faith are protected from retaliation or detrimental treatment.

Concerns can be raised through our internal reporting channels or directly to senior management. Reports may relate to suspected exploitation, unsafe or inhumane working conditions, irregularities in employment documentation, or any behaviour that may indicate modern slavery or human trafficking. All reports are taken seriously, treated confidentially as far as possible, and investigated promptly and impartially.

Where a concern is substantiated, we will take appropriate action, which may include engaging with the affected individuals, working with the supplier to remedy the situation, involving relevant authorities, or ending the business relationship where necessary.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

To support our zero-tolerance approach, we provide relevant training and guidance to colleagues who are involved in procurement, supplier management, and site supervision. This training includes information on recognising indicators of modern slavery, understanding our reporting procedures, and appreciating the importance of due diligence in supply chains.

We regularly review our processes and controls to strengthen our ability to identify and address risks related to modern slavery. Feedback from employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders is used to improve our policies and practices, and to promote a culture where respect for human rights is central to the way we operate.

Governance and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery sits with the senior management of Gardeners Neasden. They are accountable for ensuring that adequate resources, systems, and controls are in place to support this Statement and that our commitments are effectively implemented.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed on an annual basis, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, risk profile, or business activities. The review considers the effectiveness of our actions, outcomes of supplier audits, findings from investigations, and feedback from training and engagement initiatives. Any necessary updates to this Statement or related policies are approved by senior management and communicated within the business and to relevant external stakeholders.

Gardeners Neasden remains firmly committed to playing its part in eliminating modern slavery and human trafficking and to maintaining transparent, ethical, and responsible business operations.