Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Silvertown Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Silvertown to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our own operations and across our supply chains. Gardeners Silvertown is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business dealings, ensuring that the rights and dignity of every person involved in our work are respected and upheld.

Modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights and encompasses slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour, and human trafficking. Gardeners Silvertown recognises that all organisations have a responsibility to be vigilant and to take active measures to identify and address any risk of modern slavery in their operations.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Silvertown operates a clear and strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We do not accept any form of forced, bonded or involuntary labour, and we will not knowingly engage with any party that condones or is involved in such practices.

All directors, managers, employees, contractors and business partners are expected to share this commitment. Any breach of this policy by an employee may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Any supplier or business partner found to be involved in modern slavery will face immediate review of our relationship, which may lead to suspension or termination of contracts.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chain includes providers of goods, equipment, materials, logistics and contracted services essential to our gardening and related activities. We expect all suppliers and contractors to uphold the same high standards of ethics, human rights and labour practices that we apply to ourselves.

Gardeners Silvertown seeks to work only with suppliers who can demonstrate that they operate in compliance with applicable labour laws and international human rights standards. We communicate our stance on modern slavery as part of our supplier engagement and contracting processes and require suppliers to confirm that they do not tolerate modern slavery within their own operations or supply chains.

We conduct risk-based supplier audits and reviews to assess potential exposure to modern slavery. These assessments may include site visits, document reviews and discussions with management and, where appropriate, workers. Where areas of concern are identified, we work with suppliers to agree on corrective actions and timelines. Persistent failure to address identified risks or non-compliance may lead to the ending of the commercial relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing Channels

Gardeners Silvertown encourages a culture of openness and accountability. We recognise that the early identification of concerns is essential to preventing modern slavery, and we are committed to ensuring that all individuals feel safe to speak up without fear of retaliation.

Employees, contractors, suppliers and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery or human trafficking connected to Gardeners Silvertown. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting channels or directly to senior management. Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively and investigated promptly and fairly.

We are committed to protecting anyone who raises a concern in good faith from detrimental treatment, including dismissal, demotion, harassment or any other form of retaliation. Where appropriate, we will also support and assist victims of modern slavery who are identified within our operations or supply chains.

Training, Awareness and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Silvertown provides relevant information and guidance to staff to help them understand the signs of modern slavery, the associated risks in our sector and the procedures for raising concerns. Managers with responsibility for procurement or supplier relationships receive enhanced guidance on assessing and managing modern slavery risks.

We are committed to continuously improving our approach to preventing modern slavery. This includes monitoring emerging risks, learning from incidents and industry developments, and enhancing our due diligence and audit processes where necessary.

Annual Review and Governance

This Modern Slavery Statement is approved by the leadership of Gardeners Silvertown and reflects our ongoing commitment to ethical conduct and respect for human rights. The statement and our underlying procedures are reviewed at least annually to ensure they remain effective, relevant and aligned with legal requirements and best practice.

As part of the annual review, we evaluate the effectiveness of our actions, including outcomes of supplier audits, any reported concerns and the adequacy of training and guidance provided to staff. Where improvements are identified, we implement clear action plans with defined responsibilities and timeframes.

Gardeners Silvertown will continue to strengthen its governance, due diligence and stakeholder engagement to help eliminate modern slavery and human trafficking from its operations and supply chains. This statement represents our current position and our commitment to ongoing vigilance and improvement.