Gardeners Bickley Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Gardeners Bickley in accordance with relevant modern slavery and human trafficking legislation. It sets out the steps we are taking to identify, prevent, and address the risks of modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Bickley operates with a clear zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We are committed to conducting all aspects of our business ethically, transparently, and with respect for the rights and dignity of every individual. Any form of forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, or exploitation is strictly prohibited across our operations and among all those who supply goods or services to us.

We expect all employees, contractors, and suppliers to share this commitment. Any suspected breach of this policy will be treated as a serious matter and may result in investigation, termination of contracts, and reporting to appropriate authorities where required.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners Bickley provides gardening and related services. Our supply chains include providers of plants, gardening materials, tools, uniforms, equipment, and various professional services. While the inherent risk in our sector may be moderate, we recognise that elements of our supply chain may operate in higher-risk environments and we are committed to taking proportionate and effective steps to manage these risks.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

We are progressively embedding modern slavery considerations into our supplier selection and management processes. New and existing suppliers are expected to comply with all applicable laws relating to labour, employment, health and safety, and human rights. We emphasise the prohibition of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, and the requirement for fair and transparent employment practices.

Where appropriate, we seek assurances from suppliers that they have policies and controls in place to prevent modern slavery. We reserve the right to discontinue relationships with suppliers who do not meet our standards or who fail to demonstrate meaningful efforts to address identified concerns.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

Gardeners Bickley is working towards a structured programme of supplier audits to assess compliance with our modern slavery expectations. These audits may include reviewing documentation, assessing working conditions where feasible, and requesting evidence of suppliers own due diligence measures.

We prioritise audits based on risk, taking into account factors such as the nature of goods or services, geographic location, and the supplier s own supply chain. Where issues are identified, we will engage with the supplier to develop corrective action plans and monitor progress. Persistent non-compliance may lead to the suspension or termination of our business relationship.

Training, Awareness, and Reporting Channels

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery across our organisation. Relevant staff receive training on identifying indicators of exploitation, understanding our zero-tolerance policy, and knowing how to respond to concerns. We aim to ensure that those involved in procurement, recruitment, and site management are particularly well informed.

Gardeners Bickley encourages all employees, contractors, and other stakeholders to report any suspicions or concerns about modern slavery or unethical practices. Concerns can be raised via internal reporting lines or directly to management. Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. We are committed to ensuring that individuals who raise concerns in good faith do not suffer retaliation.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that addressing modern slavery risks is an ongoing responsibility. Gardeners Bickley is committed to continually improving our policies, procedures, and practices in line with evolving legislation, industry standards, and best practice guidance.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually by our leadership team. The review will consider the effectiveness of our actions, feedback from stakeholders, the outcomes of supplier audits, and any incidents or concerns raised. Where necessary, we will update our approach and communicate changes within the business and, where relevant, to our suppliers.

By publishing this statement, Gardeners Bickley reaffirms its commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all its forms and promoting respect for human rights throughout our operations and supply chains.