Gardeners Custom House Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Custom House has taken, and is continuing to take, to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not taking place within our operations or supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business activities and relationships.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Custom House has a clear, unequivocal zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking. We expect the same high standards from all those we work with, including employees, contractors, suppliers, and any other business partners. Any indication that modern slavery may be present in our business or supply chains will be treated as a serious breach of our values and standards and will lead to decisive action, including termination of contracts where appropriate.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners Custom House operates in the gardening, landscaping, and related support services sector. Our supply chains include the sourcing of plants, materials, tools, equipment, uniforms, and ancillary services. We recognise that some of these supply chains may extend into higher risk regions or industries, and we are committed to identifying and managing such risks proactively.

Risk Assessment and Supplier Standards

We assess potential risks of modern slavery by reviewing the nature of the goods and services we procure, the locations from which they are sourced, and the labour practices common in those regions and sectors. We aim to work only with suppliers who share our commitment to ethical conduct. Our expectations are communicated through our internal procurement procedures and supplier onboarding processes, which require suppliers to confirm adherence to all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

Gardeners Custom House is developing and implementing a structured audit and due diligence programme for key suppliers, with a particular focus on those operating in higher risk categories or territories. This programme may include site visits, document reviews, and discussions with supplier management and, where appropriate, workers. Where concerns are identified, we will work with the supplier to establish corrective action plans with clear timelines. If issues are not remedied to our satisfaction, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the business relationship.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness among our staff of the signs of modern slavery and the steps to take if concerns arise. Relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement and supplier management, will receive targeted guidance on identifying risk indicators and applying our policies in practice. We encourage an open culture where questions and concerns about labour practices can be raised without fear of retaliation.

Reporting Channels and Protection

Gardeners Custom House encourages employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery. Concerns can be raised through management, human resources, or other designated internal channels. Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. We will not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith, and we will take appropriate measures to protect their confidentiality and wellbeing.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. Gardeners Custom House is committed to continually improving our processes, controls, and awareness in this area. This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least once every year to assess the effectiveness of our actions, reflect any changes in our structure or supply chains, and incorporate emerging best practice and legal developments. Updates and any significant changes to our approach will be approved by senior management and communicated across the business and to relevant external partners.

This Statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Custom House and represents our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery in all its forms.