Gardeners Archway Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Archway has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. Gardeners Archway is committed to conducting business ethically, transparently and responsibly, ensuring that respect for human rights is embedded in everything we do.

Modern slavery is a serious crime and a grave violation of fundamental human rights. It can take many forms, including forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, child labour, debt bondage and other practices that deprive individuals of their freedom. Gardeners Archway recognises that every organisation has a responsibility to be vigilant and proactive in identifying and addressing these risks.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Archway operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not tolerate any form of forced, bonded or involuntary labour within our own operations or within the activities of our suppliers, contractors or business partners. Any confirmed instance of modern slavery associated with our business will lead to decisive action, which may include terminating contracts, reporting concerns to relevant authorities and working with stakeholders to support affected individuals where appropriate.

All colleagues are expected to act with integrity and in accordance with our values. We aim to foster a culture in which ethical conduct is the norm, and where everyone understands that complicity in, or wilful blindness to, modern slavery is unacceptable.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

We understand that risks of modern slavery can arise within complex supply chains. Gardeners Archway seeks to work only with suppliers and partners who share our commitment to ethical labour practices. We communicate our expectations clearly and require suppliers to comply with all applicable labour, employment and human rights laws.

As part of our due diligence processes, we assess suppliers based on the nature of the goods and services they provide, their geographic location and any other relevant risk indicators. Where we identify higher-risk activities or regions, we prioritise enhanced scrutiny.

We conduct supplier audits and assessments aimed at evaluating labour standards, working conditions and compliance with our modern slavery requirements. These audits may involve document reviews, site visits and discussions with management and, where appropriate, workers. If non-compliance is identified, we expect suppliers to implement corrective action plans within clearly defined timeframes. Continued failure to address serious concerns may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Archway encourages anyone connected with our business, including employees, agency staff, contractors and suppliers, to speak up if they suspect or witness any form of exploitation or modern slavery. We are committed to providing accessible and confidential reporting channels so that concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation.

Concerns can be reported internally to line managers or senior management, or via designated reporting mechanisms that allow for confidential disclosures. We will investigate all reports of suspected modern slavery promptly, fairly and sensitively, ensuring that, wherever possible, the identity of those raising concerns is protected. Retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith is strictly prohibited.

Where allegations are substantiated, we will take appropriate remedial action, which may include engaging with specialist organisations, notifying relevant authorities and supporting affected individuals in accessing assistance.

Training, Awareness and Continuous Improvement

To help prevent modern slavery, Gardeners Archway works to build awareness and understanding among colleagues and key suppliers. Training appropriate to roles and responsibilities is provided so that individuals can recognise indicators of modern slavery, know how to respond and understand the importance of responsible procurement practices.

We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach. We review relevant guidance and good practice to strengthen our procedures, focusing particularly on higher-risk functions such as procurement, facilities management and any outsourced services.

Annual Review of This Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed each year by the leadership of Gardeners Archway to ensure it remains accurate, effective and aligned with evolving legal requirements and best practice. The annual review considers the effectiveness of our due diligence processes, the findings of supplier audits, any reports received through our reporting channels and feedback from stakeholders.

Following each review, Gardeners Archway will update this statement where necessary and refine our policies, procedures and training to enhance our efforts to prevent and address modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains.

This statement reflects the commitment of Gardeners Archway to act ethically, uphold human dignity and contribute to the wider eradication of modern slavery in all its forms.