Gardeners Merton Park Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the approach of Gardeners Merton Park to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold human rights, promote fair employment practices and act with integrity in every aspect of our business.

Modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights. It can take many forms, including forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, debt bondage and the exploitation of vulnerable workers. Gardeners Merton Park is committed to ensuring that none of these practices have any place in our organisation or among those who provide goods and services to us.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Merton Park has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not accept, condone or overlook any form of exploitation, whether direct or indirect. This policy applies to all employees, directors, agency staff, contractors, and anyone acting on our behalf.

All individuals working with or for Gardeners Merton Park are expected to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct. We will take immediate and decisive action if we become aware of any breach of this policy, which may include terminating contracts, reporting concerns to the relevant authorities and cooperating fully with any subsequent investigations.

Our Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

We understand that our responsibility extends beyond our own workforce to our supply chains. Gardeners Merton Park seeks to work only with suppliers, subcontractors and business partners who share our commitment to ethical labour practices. We expect them to comply with all applicable labour, employment and human rights laws, and to ensure that modern slavery does not occur within their operations.

As part of our due diligence, we assess new suppliers based on their labour practices, transparency and track record. We reserve the right to carry out audits or request evidence of compliance, such as written policies, staff training records and details of their own supply chain monitoring. Where risks are identified, we will work collaboratively with suppliers to address them, but we will not hesitate to cease working with organisations that fail to meet our standards or refuse to engage constructively.

Periodic reviews and audits of existing suppliers help us to identify any emerging risks and ensure that standards are consistently maintained over time. We aim to prioritise higher risk areas for closer scrutiny, particularly where seasonal or migrant labour may be involved.

Reporting Concerns and Protection for Whistleblowers

Gardeners Merton Park encourages anyone with concerns about modern slavery, whether in our own operations or in our supply chain, to come forward without fear of retaliation. Employees, agency staff, suppliers and other stakeholders are urged to report any suspicion, sign of exploitation or unethical behaviour through our internal reporting channels or directly to senior management.

All reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively and, where possible, kept confidential. We are committed to protecting whistleblowers from detrimental treatment as a result of raising a concern in good faith. Investigations will be undertaken promptly, and appropriate remedial action will be taken whenever necessary.

Training, Awareness and Continuous Improvement

We recognise that preventing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. Gardeners Merton Park aims to raise awareness among employees and key suppliers about the signs of modern slavery and the steps to take if concerns arise. Training and guidance will be provided where relevant, particularly for those involved in procurement, recruitment and supplier management.

We are committed to reviewing our practices and taking opportunities to strengthen our approach. Feedback from staff, suppliers and other partners is welcomed and helps us to improve the robustness and effectiveness of our controls.

Annual Review of This Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least once every 12 months by the leadership of Gardeners Merton Park. The review will consider any incidents reported, the outcomes of supplier audits, changes in legislation and best practice guidance. Where areas for improvement are identified, we will update our policies, procedures and training accordingly.

By maintaining a clear zero-tolerance stance, monitoring our supply chains, providing safe reporting channels and committing to regular review, Gardeners Merton Park aims to play its part in the wider effort to eliminate modern slavery and human trafficking.