Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement for Gardeners Aldborough Hatch

Gardeners Aldborough Hatch is committed to conducting all aspects of our gardening and grounds maintenance services in an ethical, responsible and transparent manner. We recognise that modern slavery and human trafficking are grave violations of fundamental human rights and we will not tolerate any form of forced labour, servitude, debt bondage or exploitation in our operations or supply chains.

This statement sets out the steps we are taking to prevent, identify and address modern slavery risks within our business and among those who supply goods and services to us.

Our Organisation and Supply Chains

Gardeners Aldborough Hatch provides gardening, landscaping and grounds care services to residential and commercial clients. Our supply chains mainly comprise horticultural product suppliers, equipment and machinery providers, personal protective equipment suppliers, waste management services and seasonal labour providers. We recognise that some of these areas, particularly where low-skilled or seasonal work is involved, can be vulnerable to exploitation if not properly managed.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. This policy applies to all individuals working for or on behalf of Gardeners Aldborough Hatch, including employees, temporary workers, contractors, subcontractors and suppliers. We expect everyone associated with our business to uphold the highest standards of ethics, integrity and respect for human rights.

Any indication that modern slavery may be present in our operations or supply chains will be treated as a matter of utmost seriousness. Where we have reasonable grounds for concern, we will investigate promptly and, where necessary, suspend or terminate relationships with those who fail to meet our standards.

Due Diligence and Supplier Audits

We are strengthening our due diligence processes to identify and mitigate modern slavery risks. As part of onboarding and ongoing supplier management, we assess the nature of the goods or services being supplied, the location and structure of the supplier, and the vulnerability of workers involved. We require key suppliers to confirm that they comply with all relevant labour and human rights legislation and that they prohibit forced, bonded, trafficked or child labour in their own operations and supply chains.

Where risk is considered higher, we carry out more detailed checks, which may include site visits, review of workforce documentation and verification of labour practices. We reserve the right to conduct periodic audits of suppliers and subcontractors, either directly or through competent third parties, to verify compliance with our modern slavery expectations.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Aldborough Hatch encourages a culture of openness in which concerns about potential modern slavery can be raised without fear of retaliation. Workers, contractors, suppliers and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspicion of exploitation, unsafe working practices or unethical behaviour affecting our operations or supply chains.

Concerns can be raised in writing to our management team or through established internal reporting channels. All reports will be treated sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. We will investigate any allegations promptly and take appropriate action, which may include notifying relevant authorities where required. We will never tolerate victimisation of anyone who raises a concern in good faith.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery risks across our workforce. Appropriate staff, including those involved in recruitment, procurement and contract management, receive guidance on identifying warning signs of exploitation and on the correct procedures for escalating concerns.

Monitoring, Accountability and Annual Review

Responsibility for implementing this statement and monitoring compliance sits with the senior management of Gardeners Aldborough Hatch. We review our processes periodically to ensure they remain effective, taking into account changes in legislation, guidance and best practice.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every twelve months. As part of the annual review, we assess the effectiveness of our due diligence, supplier audits, training and reporting mechanisms and identify areas for improvement. Where necessary, we will update our policies and procedures to strengthen our ability to prevent and address modern slavery within our business and supply chains.

Gardeners Aldborough Hatch remains committed to continuous improvement in this area and to working collaboratively with our employees, suppliers and clients to support the eradication of modern slavery in all its forms.