Gardeners Camden Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Camden has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and we are committed to continuous improvement in this area.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Gardeners Camden adopts a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, servitude, and child labour. We expect the same high standards from all those we work with, including employees, contractors, suppliers, and other business partners. Any actual or suspected involvement in modern slavery is treated as a serious breach of our policies and may result in termination of contracts or employment, as well as referral to relevant authorities where appropriate.
Our senior management team is responsible for ensuring that this commitment is embedded in our culture, policies, training, and day-to-day decision making. Modern slavery considerations are integrated into our risk management and procurement processes so that ethical labour practices are not considered in isolation but as a core part of how we operate.
Our Supply Chains and Risk Management
Gardeners Camden sources products, materials, and services from a range of suppliers, including horticultural product providers, equipment manufacturers, maintenance contractors, and professional service firms. We recognise that certain parts of these supply chains may present a higher risk of modern slavery, particularly where products are sourced internationally or through multiple tiers of suppliers.
We conduct risk assessments to identify areas where there may be elevated vulnerability to labour exploitation. In higher-risk categories, we seek additional assurances from suppliers regarding their labour practices, sourcing methods, and monitoring procedures. Where necessary, we adjust our purchasing decisions to favour suppliers that demonstrate strong ethical standards and transparent practices.
Supplier Standards and Audits
All suppliers are expected to comply with our zero-tolerance policy on modern slavery and to adhere to all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws in the countries where they operate. We communicate our expectations clearly during supplier onboarding and contract negotiation, and we reserve the right to terminate relationships where standards are not met.
Gardeners Camden undertakes supplier audits, proportionate to risk and scale, to assess compliance with our ethical requirements. These audits may include review of employment records, working conditions, recruitment processes, and worker welfare arrangements. Where non-compliance or areas for improvement are identified, we work with suppliers to agree corrective action plans and timeframes, and we monitor progress until issues are resolved.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We encourage all employees, workers, and suppliers to report any concerns they may have about modern slavery, human trafficking, or other unethical labour practices connected to our operations or supply chains. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting channels made available by Gardeners Camden, or directly to management where appropriate.
All reports are treated seriously and investigated promptly, with due regard for confidentiality and the safety of those raising concerns. We do not tolerate any form of retaliation or victimisation against individuals who speak up in good faith. Where a concern is substantiated, we will take appropriate remedial action, including engagement with suppliers, revision of processes, or, where necessary, ending commercial relationships.
Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement
To support effective implementation of this statement, we provide training and guidance to relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, supplier management, and contract negotiation. This training helps staff recognise the signs of modern slavery and understand how to respond to potential issues.
We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach to identifying and addressing modern slavery risks. We review emerging best practice, stakeholder feedback, and evolving legal requirements to refine our policies and procedures over time.
Annual Review of this Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by senior management to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with our business activities and values. As part of this review, we assess the effectiveness of our current measures, the outcomes of any supplier audits, and any concerns raised through reporting channels.
Following each review, Gardeners Camden will update this statement and, where necessary, enhance our controls to improve the prevention, detection, and remediation of modern slavery risks. This statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Camden and represents our ongoing commitment to conducting business in a manner that respects the dignity and rights of all people.
