Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners The Hale

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners The Hale has taken, and continues to take, to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not taking place in our business operations or within our supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard against any form of modern slavery.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners The Hale has a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, child labour, and all related abuses of human rights. This commitment applies to every aspect of our gardening and landscaping services, from direct employment to the procurement of goods, materials, and subcontracted services.

All managers, employees, contractors, and suppliers are required to comply with this policy. Any breach is treated as a serious matter that may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts, and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners The Hale provides professional gardening, grounds maintenance, and related services. Our supply chains include the sourcing of plants, soils, aggregates, tools, machinery, protective equipment, and professional services. We recognise that certain sectors, locations, and categories of workers may be at higher risk of exploitation and we take particular care when engaging new suppliers or third parties.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to share our values and to uphold equivalent standards in relation to modern slavery and human rights. As part of our due diligence, we require suppliers to confirm that they do not tolerate modern slavery, that they comply with all relevant labour and employment laws, and that they apply these standards within their own supply chains.

Gardeners The Hale conducts proportionate supplier audits and reviews, focusing especially on higher risk categories such as labour provision, manufacturing of tools and equipment, and imported products. These audits may include on-site assessments, document reviews, and requests for evidence of workforce policies, right-to-work checks, and health and safety procedures.

Where risks are identified, we work with suppliers to implement corrective actions within a reasonable timeframe. Persistent non-compliance or refusal to engage constructively will result in the suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Employee Awareness, Training, and Responsibilities

All employees are made aware of our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery as part of their induction and ongoing training. Managers with responsibility for procurement or for engaging subcontractors receive additional guidance on recognising risk indicators, conducting due diligence, and escalating concerns.

Every member of staff is responsible for remaining vigilant and for reporting any suspected case of exploitation, whether within our own operations or in connection with our suppliers or clients.

Reporting Channels and Protection

Gardeners The Hale encourages staff, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices at the earliest opportunity. Reports may be made to line managers or senior management. Concerns can be raised anonymously where appropriate.

We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. All reports are treated seriously, investigated promptly, and, where necessary, escalated to relevant authorities. We will cooperate fully with any external investigations related to modern slavery or human trafficking.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach to identifying and addressing risks of modern slavery. This includes periodically updating our policies, strengthening our supplier requirements, and refining our training and audit processes in light of experience and emerging best practice.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually by the management of Gardeners The Hale to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and industry standards. Where necessary, the statement is updated to reflect changes in our operations, risk assessment findings, or regulatory developments.

By publishing this statement, Gardeners The Hale affirms its ongoing commitment to ethical conduct, respect for human rights, and the prevention of modern slavery in all forms.