Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Crossness Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Crossness to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious global issue and we are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Crossness operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, child labour, and exploitation. This policy applies to every aspect of our business activities, from direct employment to the sourcing of products, materials, and services.

We expect all employees, contractors, and suppliers to uphold the same high standards. Any indication that modern slavery or related abuses may be occurring within our organisation or supply chain is treated with the utmost seriousness and investigated promptly.

Governance and Responsibility

The overall responsibility for our modern slavery approach rests with the senior management team of Gardeners Crossness. They are accountable for ensuring that appropriate policies, procedures, and controls are in place and are regularly reviewed and improved.

Managers across the business are responsible for implementing this Statement within their areas, including communicating expectations to team members and ensuring that procurement and supplier management processes reflect our zero-tolerance stance.

Due Diligence and Supplier Audits

We understand that the risk of modern slavery can be present at any stage of a supply chain. Gardeners Crossness therefore conducts proportionate due diligence on existing and potential suppliers, with a particular focus on those operating in higher risk sectors or countries.

As part of this due diligence, we require suppliers to confirm that they comply with all applicable labour and human rights laws, and that they do not engage in forced, bonded, or involuntary labour. We reserve the right to conduct audits or request evidence to verify compliance, which may include on site visits, document checks, and worker interviews where appropriate.

Where non compliance is identified, we seek to work collaboratively with suppliers to address issues within a defined timeframe. However, we will not hesitate to suspend or terminate relationships with any supplier that fails to take adequate corrective action or is found to be deliberately involved in modern slavery practices.

Training, Awareness, and Reporting Channels

Gardeners Crossness is committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among employees whose roles involve procurement, supplier management, or direct oversight of workers. Training is provided on recognising potential indicators of exploitation and the steps required to report concerns.

We encourage all employees, contractors, and other stakeholders to report immediately any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery or human trafficking. Clear internal reporting channels are in place so that concerns can be raised confidentially and escalated to senior management. Reports are investigated thoroughly and sensitively, and appropriate action is taken without delay.

We do not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith about potential modern slavery issues.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Our approach to tackling modern slavery is continually evolving. Gardeners Crossness is committed to regularly reviewing and strengthening our policies, procedures, and controls to respond to emerging risks and best practice.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed on an annual basis by senior management. As part of that review, we assess the effectiveness of our actions, including the results of any supplier audits, the number and nature of any reported concerns, and feedback from internal stakeholders. Where necessary, we update our measures and set new objectives to further reduce the risk of modern slavery within our business and supply chains.

This Statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Crossness and reflects our ongoing commitment to conducting business responsibly, ethically, and with respect for the fundamental rights and dignity of all people.