Gardeners Catford Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Gardeners Catford in respect of the current financial year. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our own operations and across our supply chains. We are committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and in full compliance with applicable laws and regulations relating to labour, human rights, and worker protection.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Gardeners Catford provides gardening, landscaping, and related services to domestic and commercial clients. Our operations rely on a combination of directly employed staff, occasional seasonal workers, and external suppliers who provide plants, materials, tools, equipment, and ancillary services. We recognise that risks of modern slavery can arise at various points in these supply chains, particularly where subcontracted labour, overseas sourcing, and low-skilled or seasonal work are involved.
We are committed to understanding these risks and working collaboratively with our suppliers and partners to identify, prevent, and address any instance of modern slavery or human trafficking.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
Gardeners Catford has a clear zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to our direct operations and to all parties with whom we do business, including suppliers, subcontractors, and other third-party partners. Any confirmed involvement in modern slavery will lead to decisive action, which may include suspension of work, termination of contracts, and reporting to relevant authorities.
All managers are responsible for promoting a culture in which any concerns relating to exploitation, forced labour, or unsafe working conditions are taken seriously, investigated promptly, and resolved appropriately.
Supplier Standards and Audits
We expect all suppliers to share our commitment to ethical labour practices. Supplier relationships are based not only on price and quality, but also on adherence to responsible employment standards. Our expectations are communicated during supplier selection, contract negotiation, and ongoing relationship management.
Where proportionate to the size and risk profile of the relationship, we conduct checks and audits of suppliers. These may include requesting information on labour practices, right-to-work procedures, use of subcontractors, and health and safety arrangements. If we identify concerns or non-compliance, we will work with the supplier to establish corrective actions and timescales. If improvements are not made, we reserve the right to reduce, suspend, or terminate the relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We encourage anyone working for or with Gardeners Catford to raise concerns about possible modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised with line managers, senior management, or through any reporting channel communicated internally. Reports can be made in good faith without fear of retaliation, and all concerns will be treated sensitively and, where possible, confidentially.
We are committed to investigating any report of suspected modern slavery promptly and thoroughly. Where appropriate, we will escalate matters to law enforcement or relevant regulatory bodies and cooperate fully with any external investigations.
Training and Awareness
To support effective implementation of our zero-tolerance stance, we aim to provide guidance and awareness for relevant staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management. Training covers recognising indicators of modern slavery, understanding our internal procedures, and knowing how to escalate concerns.
We also seek to engage with key suppliers to raise awareness of modern slavery risks and to promote better practices throughout our shared supply chains.
Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review
Responsibility for overseeing our response to modern slavery rests with the senior management of Gardeners Catford. They review any reported concerns, monitor the outcomes of supplier checks, and assess whether additional measures are required to strengthen our controls.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant, effective, and aligned with current legislation and best practice. As part of this review, we evaluate the effectiveness of our actions, consider feedback from workers and suppliers, and identify opportunities for improvement. Updated versions of the statement will reflect any significant changes in our approach, operations, or supply chains.
By maintaining this ongoing process of review and improvement, Gardeners Catford reaffirms its commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking and to conducting all aspects of its business with integrity and respect for human rights.
