Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Old Oak Common
At Gardeners Old Oak Common, we are committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, and all forms of exploitation across our operations and supply chain. We recognise that responsible landscaping and garden services must be built on ethical labour practices, transparent procurement, and clear accountability.
Our zero-tolerance policy applies to every part of the business, including direct employees, contractors, and suppliers. We do not accept any arrangement where a person is coerced, controlled, transported, recruited, or employed through deception or abuse of power. All staff are expected to uphold this principle, and any breach is treated as a serious matter that may result in corrective action, contract termination, or referral to relevant authorities where appropriate.
As part of our commitment, Gardeners Old Oak Common carries out due diligence when appointing suppliers and subcontractors. We assess risk factors such as labour sourcing, wage practices, subcontracting arrangements, and the nature of the work being delivered. Higher-risk suppliers may be subject to enhanced checks, including document reviews and site visits. We expect all suppliers to comply with applicable labour laws and to demonstrate ethical employment standards throughout their own supply chains.
Supplier audits are an important part of our prevention strategy. These audits may be scheduled or unannounced, depending on risk and business need. During an audit, we may review recruitment records, identity checks, payroll processes, working hours, and accommodation arrangements where relevant. We also look for indicators of exploitation, such as withheld documents, unsafe conditions, excessive deductions, or workers being unable to leave employment freely. Findings are documented, and where concerns are identified, suppliers are required to implement timely corrective actions.
To support effective oversight, Gardeners Old Oak Common provides training to managers and relevant staff so they can recognise the warning signs of modern slavery. This includes understanding vulnerabilities linked to seasonal work, labour migration, language barriers, and dependency on intermediaries. Training helps ensure that ethical issues are identified early and handled consistently, reinforcing our broader commitment to responsible business conduct.
We encourage a culture where concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation. Our reporting channels allow employees, contractors, and suppliers to report suspected abuse, unethical recruitment, or unsafe labour practices through internal management routes and formal whistleblowing procedures. Reports are treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled with sensitivity and confidentiality. Retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith is not tolerated.
The effectiveness of this approach is monitored through regular compliance checks, management review, and supplier engagement. Where risks are identified, we work with relevant parties to improve standards, strengthen controls, or end relationships where improvement is not possible. This helps ensure that our operations remain aligned with the principles of human dignity and lawful employment.
Our statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains current, relevant, and effective. The review considers changes in legislation, sector risks, procurement patterns, audit outcomes, and reported concerns. Any updates may lead to improved training, enhanced supplier requirements, or stronger monitoring procedures. This annual review demonstrates that our commitment is not static, but an active and continuing responsibility.
Ultimately, Gardeners Old Oak Common believes that ethical horticulture and landscaping depend on respect for people at every stage of the service chain. By maintaining a zero-tolerance stance, strengthening supplier audits, offering secure reporting channels, and reviewing our statement each year, we work to prevent modern slavery and promote fair treatment in all that we do.
We will continue to improve our controls, challenge risks wherever they appear, and uphold the values that define Gardeners Old Oak Common. Our aim is simple: to ensure that every individual connected with our work is treated with dignity, freedom, and respect.