Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Eel Pie Island

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Eel Pie Island to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting our business ethically, responsibly, and in full respect of human rights. This statement relates to the financial year ending 31 March and will be reviewed and updated annually.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Eel Pie Island has a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced or compulsory labour, and child labour. We expect the same high standards from all those we work with, including employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers at every level of our supply chain.

No form of exploitation is accepted in any part of our business. Any suspected breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in the termination of business relationships and, where appropriate, referral to the relevant authorities.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners Eel Pie Island operates in the horticulture and gardening services sector, supplying garden design, maintenance, and related services. Our supply chains include plant nurseries, tool and equipment providers, materials and landscaping suppliers, uniform and safety equipment providers, and a range of professional and support services.

We recognise that certain sectors and regions present a higher risk of modern slavery. We therefore pay particular attention to suppliers involved in seasonal labour, manufacturing, and international sourcing of materials or products.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

We are committed to working only with suppliers who uphold the same ethical standards as Gardeners Eel Pie Island. All new suppliers are assessed against our ethical sourcing expectations, including compliance with applicable labour laws, prohibition of forced and child labour, and respect for workers rights.

Our standard terms and conditions require suppliers to comply with laws on modern slavery and human trafficking and to take active steps to prevent such abuses within their own operations and supply chains. We reserve the right to request information and evidence of compliance and to discontinue relationships where adequate standards are not met or where corrective actions are not implemented within agreed timeframes.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

To support our zero-tolerance policy, we undertake risk-based supplier audits and reviews. Higher-risk suppliers may be subject to more detailed assessments, which can include site visits, verification of labour practices, and review of relevant documentation such as employment records and worker accommodation arrangements.

Where risks are identified, we work collaboratively with suppliers to address concerns and to implement improvement plans. Failure to engage constructively or to resolve identified issues may lead to reduced business or termination of the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Raising Concerns

Gardeners Eel Pie Island encourages an open culture where concerns about modern slavery or unethical behaviour can be raised without fear of retaliation. Employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspected instance of modern slavery, human trafficking, or labour exploitation within our operations or supply chains.

Concerns can be raised internally through line management or by contacting a senior manager. All reports will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and handled sensitively. We will protect, as far as reasonably possible, the confidentiality of individuals who raise concerns in good faith and will not tolerate any form of victimisation against those who speak up.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff and key suppliers. Training and guidance are provided to managers and employees involved in procurement, supplier management, and recruitment so they can identify warning signs and understand the correct process for reporting concerns.

We will continue to develop our training materials to reflect evolving best practice and emerging risks, ensuring that relevant colleagues remain informed and vigilant.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Gardeners Eel Pie Island recognises that combating modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility that requires continuous improvement. Each year we review the effectiveness of our policies, risk assessments, supplier audits, and training initiatives to strengthen our controls and responses.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed and approved at senior level on an annual basis. Updated versions are made available to our stakeholders and used as a framework for measuring progress and guiding improvements in our approach to ethical and responsible business practices.