Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Goodmayes
Gardeners Goodmayes is committed to conducting all aspects of its operations with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. We recognise that modern slavery, including forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, and child labour, is a serious abuse that can occur in many industries and supply chains. This statement sets out the principles and controls that guide Gardeners Goodmayes in preventing modern slavery and protecting those who may be vulnerable to exploitation.
Our zero-tolerance policy applies to every part of the business and to everyone acting on our behalf. We do not accept any form of exploitation, coercion, deception, or abuse of power. All team members are expected to act ethically, remain alert to warning signs, and follow internal procedures if they suspect wrongdoing. This approach reflects our belief that responsible gardening services must be delivered in a manner that is lawful, transparent, and humane.
We also expect our suppliers, contractors, and partners to uphold the same standards. Gardeners Goodmayes seeks to work only with organisations that can demonstrate fair employment practices, lawful recruitment, and respect for workers’ rights. Where appropriate, we request evidence of compliance, including policies, worker records, and details of subcontracting arrangements. If a concern is identified, we may require corrective action, increase oversight, or end the relationship where necessary.
Supplier management is a key part of our safeguarding framework. We use supplier audits and due diligence checks to assess risk before and during commercial relationships. These reviews may consider the country of origin, labour intensity, use of agency staff, and the nature of the goods or services supplied. Higher-risk arrangements are subject to closer review, and we may ask suppliers to confirm that they have taken steps to prevent trafficking, debt bondage, and other exploitative practices.
Our team receives guidance on recognising indicators of modern slavery, such as restricted movement, withheld wages, poor accommodation, signs of intimidation, or workers being unable to speak freely. While Gardeners Goodmayes is a local service business, we understand that risk can exist at every level of procurement and service delivery. For that reason, vigilance is maintained across all operations, from sourcing materials to managing seasonal labour and subcontracted work.
Reporting concerns is essential to the effectiveness of this statement. Gardeners Goodmayes maintains clear and accessible reporting channels so that employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders can raise concerns in good faith. Reports can be made through internal management routes, and all concerns are handled confidentially and taken seriously. No person will suffer retaliation for raising a genuine concern, and allegations will be investigated promptly, sensitively, and fairly.
Where a risk or incident is identified, we will respond with proportionate action. This may include pausing work, reviewing supplier documentation, escalating the issue to senior management, or supporting a referral to the appropriate authorities. We may also require remedial measures from suppliers, including improved record keeping, worker awareness measures, and revised recruitment controls. Our objective is not only compliance, but active prevention of abuse.
Annual review is central to keeping this statement effective and relevant. Gardeners Goodmayes reviews its modern slavery arrangements at least once every year to consider any changes in risk, legislation, supplier activity, or internal procedures. The review includes assessing the effectiveness of training, audits, and reporting mechanisms, as well as identifying opportunities to strengthen oversight. Any updates are approved by management and embedded into operational practice.
We believe that a credible response to modern slavery requires consistency, transparency, and continuous improvement. This statement represents our current commitments and the standards expected throughout Gardeners Goodmayes. By maintaining a firm zero-tolerance position, strengthening supplier checks, encouraging safe reporting, and conducting annual reviews, we aim to support ethical practices and reduce the risk of exploitation in our work and supply chain.
In doing so, Gardeners Goodmayes reaffirms its responsibility to protect human dignity and to act with care in every business relationship. Our commitment is ongoing, and we will continue to improve our controls as new risks emerge and expectations evolve.