Gardeners Wimbledon: Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the commitment of Gardeners Wimbledon to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking across our operations and supply chains. Our anti-slavery statement explains the steps we take to identify, assess and mitigate the risk that any form of slavery, forced labour, bonded labour or human trafficking is occurring in the provision of our services. We are clear that no form of exploitation will be tolerated and we publish this slavery and human trafficking statement to demonstrate transparency and accountability.
Our zero-tolerance policy is embedded in our organisational values and applies to all employees, contractors and partners. Gardeners Wimbledon operates an explicit zero tolerance policy against forced or compulsory labour, and we make that expectation clear in contracts and procurement documents. We require all staff to act in accordance with our Modern Slavery Policy and to report concerns immediately through the mechanisms described in this declaration.
We conduct regular risk assessments across the business and our supply chain to identify areas where slavery and human trafficking risks may be present. This anti-slavery statement covers direct employment, agency workers, subcontractors and suppliers of goods and services. We pay particular attention to areas with known vulnerabilities and work to reduce exploitation risks through careful supplier selection and monitoring.
Gardeners Wimbledon carries out supplier audits and due diligence on high-risk suppliers as part of our procurement process. Our approach to supplier audits includes document checks, on-site visits where appropriate and targeted questionnaires covering labour standards, working hours, pay, recruitment fees and freedom of movement. Suppliers found to be non-compliant are required to agree corrective action plans or face termination of contracts.
We reinforce expectations through contractual clauses and regular engagement. Our supplier code of conduct sets out minimum standards and our anti-slavery policy requires suppliers to confirm that they do not use forced labour and that recruitment fees are not charged to workers. Where suppliers engage third-party labour providers, we require evidence of proper oversight and transparent recruitment practices.
Training and awareness-raising are central to our prevention strategy. We provide targeted training to procurement teams, site managers and HR staff so they can recognise signs of exploitation and understand reporting obligations. Internal policies are reviewed and communicated regularly, and staff are encouraged to speak up without fear. We maintain clear grievance and whistleblowing channels to ensure issues are surfaced and addressed quickly.
Our reporting channels are designed to be accessible and confidential. Employees and third parties can raise concerns through anonymous hotlines, internal reporting forms and through line managers. We operate a non-retaliation commitment and ensure that all reports are investigated promptly, fairly and sensitively. A structured investigative process ensures victims are protected and appropriate remedial steps are taken.
When incidents are identified, Gardeners Wimbledon will take proportionate action which may include immediate removal of the individual from the site, provision of support to the affected person, engagement with law enforcement where necessary and remediation via the supplier corrective action process. We document outcomes and, where appropriate, revise supplier relationships to prevent recurrence.
We are committed to continual improvement. Our slavery and human trafficking statement is reviewed at least annually by senior management and the board to assess effectiveness, update risk assessments and approve any changes to policy or process. Key elements of our approach include:
- Regular supplier audits and targeted due diligence;
- Mandatory training for relevant staff and contractor awareness;
- Clear reporting channels and non-retaliation protections;
- Annual review of the Modern Slavery Statement and policy framework.
Gardeners Wimbledon takes its responsibilities seriously and remains vigilant in the fight against modern slavery. Through effective governance, robust supplier monitoring, accessible reporting channels and an annual review cycle, we strive to ensure that our operations and supply chains are free from exploitation. This anti-slavery statement reflects our ongoing commitment to ethical conduct and to protecting the dignity of every worker associated with our business.
