Modern Slavery and Ethical Labour Statement

Gardeners Lower Clapton is committed to conducting all aspects of our business with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. We recognise our responsibility to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. This statement sets out the steps we take to identify, prevent, and address risks related to modern slavery and unethical labour practices.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to all aspects of our business, including direct employment, contracted services, and the sourcing of materials, tools, and equipment used in our gardening and related services. We will not knowingly work with any individual, contractor, or organisation that engages in practices that constitute modern slavery or that fails to uphold basic standards of labour rights and human dignity.

All employees, managers, and supervisors are expected to support this position and to act immediately if they have any concerns about potential exploitation or abusive labour practices in connection with our activities.

Our Workforce and Employment Practices

Gardeners Lower Clapton aims to provide a safe, fair, and inclusive working environment. We use documented recruitment processes designed to ensure that all workers are engaged voluntarily and with a clear understanding of their rights, responsibilities, pay, and working conditions. We do not charge recruitment fees, we do not retain original identity documents, and we do not tolerate any form of coercion or intimidation.

Employees are free to leave their employment under the terms of their contracts. Wages are paid in line with applicable laws, and we ensure that working hours, rest breaks, and holiday entitlements comply with legal and regulatory standards.

Supplier Standards and Audits

Our commitment to preventing modern slavery extends to our suppliers, subcontractors, and other business partners. We expect all suppliers to adhere to labour standards that are consistent with our own principles and with relevant legislation. As part of our supplier onboarding and review processes, we assess the ethical and labour practices of current and prospective suppliers.

Where appropriate, we conduct supplier audits or request evidence of compliance with labour and human rights standards. This may include questionnaires, site visits, verification of employment records, or review of supplier policies and training measures. If a supplier fails to meet our expectations or refuses to engage constructively on these issues, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities

We are committed to promoting awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff. Managers and those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management receive guidance on identifying indicators of forced labour, trafficking, or exploitation. Responsibilities for monitoring and implementing this statement are clearly communicated, and senior management provides oversight of our approach.

We encourage a culture where concerns can be raised openly, and where everyone understands that preventing modern slavery is a shared responsibility.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Lower Clapton provides internal channels for employees, contractors, and other stakeholders to raise concerns about potential modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be reported to line managers or senior management, either in person or in writing. Reports can be made in good faith without fear of retaliation, and we will treat all concerns seriously.

Where allegations are made, we will investigate promptly and take appropriate action, which may include notifying relevant authorities, working with affected individuals to ensure their safety, and reviewing our business relationships with implicated parties.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that tackling modern slavery requires ongoing vigilance and continuous improvement. Gardeners Lower Clapton will review this statement and our related practices at least once every year, or more frequently if there are significant changes to our business, services, or supply chains. The annual review will consider any incidents, audit findings, changes in legislation, and feedback from stakeholders.

As a result of these reviews, we may update our policies, strengthen due diligence procedures, introduce additional training, or refine our supplier requirements to further reduce the risk of modern slavery. This statement represents our current commitment and framework for action and will be updated as our practices evolve.

This Modern Slavery and Ethical Labour Statement has been approved by the management of Gardeners Lower Clapton and reflects our ongoing commitment to respect and protect human rights across all areas of our work.