Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Waterloo

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Waterloo has taken, and continues to take, to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not present in our business operations or supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to act ethically and with integrity in all our relationships and to implement effective systems and controls that safeguard workers and communities.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners Waterloo provides gardening, landscaping, and related support services. Our activities rely on a combination of directly employed staff, seasonal workers, and a network of suppliers and subcontractors that provide materials, equipment, and ancillary services. We understand that certain areas of our supply chain, including the sourcing of plants, materials, and outsourced labour, may present a higher risk of labour exploitation, and we focus our efforts accordingly.

Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Waterloo maintains a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. We do not accept any practice that deprives individuals of their freedom, dignity, or fair compensation. This position applies to every part of our business and to all parties that work with us, including suppliers, subcontractors, and other business partners. Any confirmed instance of modern slavery within our operations or supply chain will result in decisive remedial action, which may include termination of contracts and reporting to relevant authorities.

Policies and Governance

Our commitment to combating modern slavery is embedded in our internal policies, which cover ethical conduct, recruitment, equality, and health and safety. These policies are communicated to employees as part of their induction and ongoing training. Managers are responsible for promoting awareness of modern slavery risks and ensuring that concerns are treated seriously and escalated appropriately. We expect our suppliers to have equivalent policies and to communicate them throughout their own supply chains.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We conduct proportionate due diligence on new and existing suppliers, with a particular focus on those operating in higher-risk sectors or locations. This includes assessing their approach to labour standards, working conditions, and worker protections. Gardeners Waterloo reserves the right to carry out audits or request evidence of compliance, such as workforce records, policies, and training materials. Where we identify concerns, we will work collaboratively with suppliers to address them through corrective action plans, time-bound improvements, and, where necessary, follow-up audits. Persistent non-compliance or refusal to engage will lead to a review of the business relationship and may result in termination.

Training and Awareness

We provide training and guidance to relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and site supervision. This training covers the indicators of modern slavery, how to respond to suspected cases, and the importance of responsible sourcing. By raising awareness across our teams, we aim to strengthen our ability to identify risks at an early stage and to intervene promptly.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Waterloo encourages all employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised confidentially with line managers or senior management, or through existing internal reporting routes. Reports will be handled sensitively and investigated promptly, and we will not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. Where appropriate, we will work with external agencies and specialist organisations to support affected individuals and address the root causes of exploitation.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to ongoing improvement in our approach to managing modern slavery risks. Gardeners Waterloo reviews this statement and our related processes on an annual basis, or more frequently if significant changes occur in our operations or risk profile. As part of the review, we assess the effectiveness of our due diligence, supplier engagement, training, and reporting mechanisms, and we identify opportunities for strengthening our controls. The outcomes of the review inform our objectives and action plans for the following year.

Approval and Responsibility

This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Waterloo, who retain overall responsibility for its implementation. Management at all levels is responsible for ensuring that those reporting to them understand and comply with this statement and support our efforts to eradicate modern slavery from our business and supply chains.