Modern Slavery Statement
Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Swiss Cottage
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Gardeners Swiss Cottage in recognition of the ongoing responsibility to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and all forms of labour exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to conducting business ethically, transparently, and with respect for the rights and dignity of every individual.
Our Zero-Tolerance Policy
Gardeners Swiss Cottage operates a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not tolerate any form of forced, bonded, or compulsory labour, servitude, or exploitation in our own activities or in those carried out on our behalf by third parties. This commitment applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, consultants, and suppliers.
Our expectations are clearly communicated through our internal policies and supplier requirements. We require all parties working with us to uphold the same high standards of ethical conduct, and we reserve the right to terminate relationships where there is evidence or serious suspicion of modern slavery or related abuses.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Gardeners Swiss Cottage provides gardening and related services. Our supply chains include the sourcing of plants, gardening materials, equipment, uniforms, and related services. We recognise that certain sectors and geographies can pose a higher risk of labour exploitation, and we strive to identify and manage these risks proactively.
We aim to work with reputable suppliers who share our values and who can demonstrate a clear commitment to fair and safe working conditions, lawful employment practices, and respect for human rights.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We carry out proportionate due diligence on suppliers and contractors to assess potential risks of modern slavery. This may include requesting information about labour practices, working conditions, recruitment processes, and subcontracting arrangements.
Where appropriate, we may conduct audits or request evidence of audits carried out by credible third parties. These assessments focus on areas such as the use of temporary or migrant labour, payment of wages, working hours, freedom of movement, and the absence of recruitment fees charged to workers.
Suppliers are expected to cooperate fully with our due diligence processes. Failure to provide adequate information or to address identified concerns may result in corrective action, suspension of orders, or termination of the business relationship.
Training and Awareness
We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our management and staff. Relevant employees receive guidance on recognising indicators of exploitation, understanding our policies, and knowing how to escalate concerns.
We aim to embed respect for human rights into our culture so that ethical considerations inform day-to-day decisions about purchasing, recruitment, and operational practices.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing
Gardeners Swiss Cottage encourages anyone who has concerns about possible modern slavery or human trafficking in our operations or supply chains to report them without delay. Concerns may be raised through internal management channels or via any existing whistleblowing mechanisms made available by the company.
Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated where appropriate. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith, whether they are an employee, worker, or third party.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process requiring continuous improvement. Gardeners Swiss Cottage is committed to regularly reviewing and enhancing our policies, procedures, and risk assessments to ensure they remain effective and proportionate.
This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least once every year by senior management. The annual review will consider changes to our business activities, updates in legislation and best practice, and any lessons learned from incidents, audits, or stakeholder feedback. Where necessary, we will update our controls and communicate any significant changes to staff and suppliers.
By publishing this Statement, Gardeners Swiss Cottage confirms its ongoing commitment to acting ethically, supporting the elimination of modern slavery and human trafficking, and promoting respect for human rights across our business and supply chains.
