Gardeners Penge Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Penge has taken, and continues to take, to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not taking place in our business or in our supply chains. Gardeners Penge operates as a gardening and grounds maintenance business and recognises its responsibility to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct.

Modern slavery encompasses slavery, servitude, human trafficking and forced labour. Gardeners Penge has a zero-tolerance approach to any form of modern slavery and is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business dealings and relationships.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Penge does not tolerate any form of modern slavery or human trafficking within our operations or supply chains. We expect the same high standards from all of our employees, contractors, suppliers, and other business partners. Any breach or suspected breach of this policy will be treated seriously and may result in termination of contracts or working relationships, as well as potential reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Our commitment extends to ensuring that employment is freely chosen, that workers are of legal working age, that fair terms and conditions are provided, and that no one is subject to intimidation, coercion, or inhumane treatment in connection with work performed for Gardeners Penge.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We recognise that our greatest exposure to modern slavery risk is through our supply chains, including the procurement of plants, materials, tools, uniforms, and outsourced services. Gardeners Penge seeks to work only with suppliers and contractors who share our commitment to ethical labour practices.

All key suppliers are expected to confirm that they comply with applicable labour, human rights, and health and safety laws and that they have their own measures in place to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking. We are progressively incorporating modern slavery clauses into supplier agreements to reinforce these obligations.

Gardeners Penge conducts risk-based reviews and audits of selected suppliers. These may include requests for supporting documentation, on-site inspections where appropriate, and follow-up action plans where potential issues are identified. Failure by a supplier to demonstrate adequate controls or willingness to address concerns may result in the reconsideration or termination of the commercial relationship.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities

Gardeners Penge promotes awareness of modern slavery risks among management and staff, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management. Relevant personnel are informed about the signs of modern slavery and the processes to follow if concerns arise.

Responsibility for overseeing this statement and its implementation rests with the company leadership. Managers are responsible for ensuring that their teams understand and apply this policy in day-to-day operations and when engaging with third parties on behalf of Gardeners Penge.

Reporting Concerns and Speak-Up Channels

Gardeners Penge encourages all employees, suppliers, contractors, and other stakeholders to report any concerns they may have about modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected with our business or supply chains. Concerns can be reported verbally to a manager, in writing to senior management, or through existing internal reporting mechanisms.

All reports will be taken seriously and handled sensitively. Where possible and appropriate, confidentiality will be maintained. No one who raises a concern in good faith will suffer any detrimental treatment as a result of reporting a suspicion of modern slavery.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

This statement reflects Gardeners Penge’s ongoing commitment to improving our processes and reducing the risk of modern slavery in our operations and supply chains. We will continue to review our supplier due diligence, staff awareness, and audit practices to enhance their effectiveness.

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement will be reviewed at least annually by senior management to ensure it remains current, relevant, and aligned with best practice and legal requirements. Any necessary updates or enhancements will be approved and implemented as part of our broader commitment to ethical and responsible business conduct.

This statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Penge and represents our position for the current financial year.