Gardeners Bedford Park Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Bedford Park to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard the rights and wellbeing of all workers connected to our services.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Bedford Park maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not accept any form of forced, bonded, or compulsory labour, child labour, or any practices that deny individuals their fundamental rights and freedoms. This commitment applies to our employees, contractors, agency workers, and all suppliers and partners providing goods and services to our business.

All staff are expected to uphold this policy and to support a culture in which exploitation is never ignored, excused, or concealed. Any breach of this policy by employees may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. For suppliers and contractors, breaches may result in the ending of commercial relationships.

Supply Chain Standards and Due Diligence

Our supply chain includes providers of gardening materials, equipment, uniforms, transport, and ancillary services. We recognise that the risk of modern slavery can vary by sector, geography, and type of work, and we are committed to actively assessing and reducing these risks.

We expect all suppliers to operate in line with our ethical standards, to comply with applicable labour and human rights laws, and to ensure that workers are employed voluntarily, paid fairly, and treated with dignity and respect. We reserve the right to request evidence of compliance, including policies, procedures, and relevant certifications, where appropriate.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

Gardeners Bedford Park conducts proportionate checks on new and existing suppliers, focusing on those operating in higher-risk categories or locations. These checks may include requests for documentation, site visits where reasonable and practical, and the use of questionnaires covering labour practices, recruitment methods, and worker protections.

Where concerns are identified, we will work with the supplier to agree corrective actions and clear timeframes. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to address serious issues, we will consider suspending or terminating the relationship. We are committed to continuous improvement and will review and refine our audit and monitoring processes as our business and supply chains evolve.

Reporting Concerns and Safe Channels

Gardeners Bedford Park encourages anyone connected with our operations or supply chain to report suspected modern slavery or unethical labour practices without fear of retaliation. Concerns may be raised with line managers, senior management, or through designated reporting routes within the business.

Reports will be treated seriously and sensitively, with appropriate confidentiality. We will investigate all credible allegations and, where necessary, take prompt remedial action, including engaging with suppliers, supporting affected individuals, and notifying relevant authorities when required. We do not tolerate victimisation of anyone who raises a concern in good faith.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities

We are committed to improving staff awareness of modern slavery risks and indicators, particularly for those involved in procurement, contract management, and on-site supervision. Training and guidance are provided to help staff recognise signs of exploitation, understand how to respond, and know where to seek advice.

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery lies with the senior management of Gardeners Bedford Park. Managers are expected to promote ethical practices within their teams and to ensure that this statement and our zero-tolerance stance are communicated clearly to relevant stakeholders.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. As part of the review, we assess our risk profile, audit findings, reported concerns, and any changes in our operations or supply chains.

Where opportunities for improvement are identified, we will update our procedures, training, and supplier engagement approaches accordingly. Gardeners Bedford Park is committed to ongoing vigilance and to strengthening our efforts year on year to help eradicate modern slavery and protect the rights of all workers connected to our business.