Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Noak Hill

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Noak Hill has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking from occurring within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically, with integrity and transparency in all business dealings, and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard human rights.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

Gardeners Noak Hill has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, child labour, debt bondage and exploitation. We expect the same high standards from everyone we work with, including employees, contractors, temporary workers, suppliers and other business partners. Modern slavery is a serious violation of fundamental human rights and is wholly incompatible with our values and our responsibilities as an employer and purchaser of goods and services.

Any suspected involvement in modern slavery within our own operations or those of our suppliers will be treated as a serious misconduct issue and may result in termination of employment, contracts or business relationships. We are committed to taking prompt and decisive action wherever concerns are raised and substantiated.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Standards

Our supply chains include providers of landscaping materials, tools, equipment, uniforms, transport, maintenance and a range of professional and support services. We recognise that risks of modern slavery can arise at various tiers of these supply chains, particularly where there is low-skilled or seasonal labour or where goods originate from higher risk regions.

We are working to ensure that our procurement processes incorporate clear expectations regarding ethical labour practices. New and existing suppliers are required to demonstrate that they operate in compliance with applicable employment, labour and human rights laws. We make clear that we will not knowingly engage with any supplier that fails to uphold these standards or that refuses reasonable scrutiny of its labour practices.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

Gardeners Noak Hill is strengthening its due diligence procedures to assess and manage the risk of modern slavery within our supply chains. Where appropriate, we carry out proportionate audits and checks on suppliers, with a focus on higher risk categories of goods or services. These audits may include desktop reviews of policies and documentation, requests for evidence of right to work and wage records, and where feasible, site visits to observe working conditions.

When concerns are identified, we will engage constructively with suppliers to develop corrective action plans and timescales for improvement. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to make the required changes, we reserve the right to reduce, suspend or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage employees, workers, suppliers and any other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery, human trafficking or other serious labour abuses connected with our business. Concerns can be raised through existing internal reporting lines, including line managers or designated senior personnel, or via any established confidential reporting mechanisms operated by the business.

All reports will be taken seriously and treated sensitively, with appropriate safeguards in place to protect anyone raising concerns in good faith from retaliation or detrimental treatment. Where necessary, we will work with relevant authorities and specialist organisations to investigate and address reported issues.

Training, Awareness and Responsibility

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery lies with the senior management of Gardeners Noak Hill. They are accountable for ensuring that adequate resources are allocated and that policies, procedures and controls remain effective.

We are committed to promoting awareness of modern slavery risks among our employees, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment and supplier management. Training and guidance will be provided so that relevant staff understand how to identify signs of exploitation and how to escalate concerns appropriately.

Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Noak Hill recognises that combating modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires continual monitoring and improvement. We will review this Modern Slavery Statement, and the effectiveness of our related policies and procedures, at least once every year. The review will consider changes in our operations and supply chains, the evolving regulatory landscape and any incidents or concerns raised during the period.

Where opportunities to strengthen our controls are identified, we will update our practices accordingly, including enhancing supplier requirements, improving due diligence, refining reporting channels and expanding training. This Statement has been approved by the management of Gardeners Noak Hill and reflects our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery in all aspects of our business.