Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Merton has taken, and continues to take, to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not taking place in our own operations or in our supply chains. Gardeners Merton is committed to conducting business ethically, transparently and with integrity in all our relationships.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Gardeners Merton operates a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and child labour. We recognise that modern slavery is a grave violation of fundamental human rights and we will not knowingly engage with any individual or organisation involved in such practices.
All team members, including permanent, temporary and seasonal workers, and all third parties acting on our behalf, are expected to uphold this zero-tolerance policy. Any breach of this commitment is treated as a serious disciplinary and contractual matter, which may result in termination of employment or business relationships where appropriate.
Our Operations and Supply Chains
Gardeners Merton provides gardening, landscaping and grounds maintenance services. Our supply chains include, but are not limited to, suppliers of plants, soils, aggregates, tools, machinery, protective equipment and other horticultural materials, as well as subcontracted labour and specialist services where required.
We recognise that certain sectors and regions may carry higher risks of labour exploitation. We are committed to understanding these risks and taking proportionate and effective steps to prevent and address modern slavery in all tiers of our supply chains.
Supplier Standards and Audits
Gardeners Merton expects all suppliers and subcontractors to share and uphold our values regarding human rights and labour standards. We seek to work only with organisations that can demonstrate respect for lawful and ethical employment practices.
Our approach to supplier oversight includes the following measures:
We communicate our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery to new and existing suppliers and require acknowledgement of our expectations as a condition of doing business with us.
We reserve the right to conduct audits or request evidence from suppliers demonstrating that they have appropriate policies, due diligence, recruitment practices and monitoring in place to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking.
Where we identify higher-risk suppliers or categories of goods or services, we may undertake enhanced checks, including site visits, document reviews or structured questionnaires focused on labour conditions and worker protections.
If a supplier fails to meet our standards, we will seek corrective action within a reasonable timeframe. Persistent non-compliance, or evidence of involvement in modern slavery, will result in review and potential termination of the business relationship.
Training, Awareness and Responsibility
Responsibility for overseeing our modern slavery prevention efforts sits with the senior management team of Gardeners Merton. Managers involved in procurement, recruitment and supplier management are expected to understand the risks of modern slavery and to apply our policies consistently.
Where appropriate, we provide guidance to staff on identifying warning signs of exploitation, such as unusual working or living arrangements, restriction of movement, withholding of documents or wages, or signs of coercion. Employees are encouraged to raise any concerns at the earliest opportunity.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Gardeners Merton is committed to fostering an open culture in which concerns about modern slavery, human trafficking or any unethical conduct can be raised safely and confidentially.
Employees, workers, suppliers and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery through our internal reporting channels. Concerns may be raised with a line manager, senior manager or through our established whistleblowing arrangements.
All reports will be taken seriously and handled sensitively. We will investigate concerns promptly and, where appropriate, take remedial action. Gardeners Merton will not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Gardeners Merton recognises that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility that requires continuous improvement. We aim to strengthen our processes over time by reviewing risk assessments, updating our policies, and engaging constructively with suppliers and workers.
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement will be reviewed annually by the senior management team to ensure it remains effective, relevant and aligned with evolving legal requirements and best practice. Where necessary, we will update our approach and communicate any significant changes to our employees and suppliers.
This statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Merton, who are committed to its implementation and to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct across all aspects of our business.
