Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
Gardeners Westminster is committed to conducting all aspects of its operations in an ethical, transparent, and responsible manner. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement outlines the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, forced labour, and human trafficking in our business and supply chains. It applies to all employees, workers, contractors, and suppliers engaged by Gardeners Westminster.
Our Organisation and Supply Chains
Gardeners Westminster provides landscaping, horticultural, and grounds maintenance services. Our supply chains include the sourcing of plants, gardening materials, equipment, uniforms, and associated services. We recognise that certain sectors, locations, and types of work within these supply chains may carry a higher risk of labour exploitation, and we are committed to identifying and addressing those risks.
Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery
Gardeners Westminster has a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly work with any organisation or individual that engages in, or is complicit in, such practices. This applies to every stage of our operations, from recruitment and employment to procurement and subcontracting.
All employees and suppliers are expected to act with integrity and to uphold the highest standards of human rights. Any breach of this policy by an employee may lead to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Any breach by a supplier may result in the termination of contracts and business relationships.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to share our commitment to preventing modern slavery. As part of our supplier management process, we seek to work only with organisations that can demonstrate compliance with applicable labour laws and ethical standards.
Gardeners Westminster undertakes proportionate supplier due diligence and audits, focusing on higher risk categories, such as labour-intensive services and goods sourced from regions or sectors with known vulnerabilities. These audits may include the review of employment records, working conditions, recruitment practices, and the use of subcontracted or agency labour.
Where issues are identified, we expect suppliers to develop and implement corrective action plans within a reasonable timeframe. Continued failure to address concerns relating to modern slavery or human trafficking may result in contract suspension or termination.
Policies, Training, and Awareness
Our approach to modern slavery is supported by internal policies on ethical conduct, recruitment, whistleblowing, and health and safety. These policies are communicated to staff and form part of our governance framework.
Gardeners Westminster provides relevant training and guidance to managers and employees involved in procurement, recruitment, and site supervision. This training aims to help staff recognise signs of exploitation, understand the risks within our sector, and know how to respond to concerns.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Gardeners Westminster encourages a culture of openness and accountability. All employees, contractors, and suppliers are urged to report any concerns related to modern slavery or human trafficking, whether within our operations or in our supply chains.
Concerns can be raised through internal reporting channels, including line managers or designated senior managers. Reports will be treated seriously and sensitively, and individuals raising concerns in good faith will not suffer any form of retaliation or disadvantage as a result of speaking up.
We commit to investigating all credible reports promptly and taking appropriate action, which may include working with law enforcement or specialist agencies where necessary.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Gardeners Westminster recognises that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We are committed to continuous improvement in our policies, due diligence processes, and training to better identify and address risks as they evolve.
This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed at least annually by the senior management team. The review considers changes in our operations, emerging risks in our sector, feedback from audits and reports, and developments in legislation and best practice. Where necessary, we will update our procedures and controls to enhance our effectiveness in preventing modern slavery.
This Statement has been approved by the management of Gardeners Westminster and represents our current position on the prevention of modern slavery and human trafficking within our business and supply chains.
