Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Becontree Heath

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Becontree Heath to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights and we are committed to acting ethically, transparently, and with integrity in all our business relationships.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Becontree Heath operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, and child labour. This applies to our own activities, our employees, contractors, and all suppliers and partners that support our gardening and landscaping services.

We expect everyone who works with or for Gardeners Becontree Heath to adhere to this commitment. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation that is involved in, or fails to take adequate steps to prevent, modern slavery or human trafficking. Where concerns are identified, we will act promptly to investigate and, if necessary, terminate the relationship.

Our Supply Chain and Risk Management

Our supply chain includes providers of plants, soil, gardening materials, tools, machinery, uniforms, and other related goods and services. We understand that risks of modern slavery may be higher in certain sectors, geographical locations, or types of work, particularly where low-skilled or seasonal labour is prevalent.

We seek to identify and assess potential risk areas in our supply chain. We expect suppliers to implement robust labour and human rights standards and to ensure that their own suppliers and subcontractors do the same. Any supplier found to be in breach of our standards will be required to take corrective action or face the termination of their contract.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

To support our zero-tolerance stance, we carry out proportionate due diligence and audits on key suppliers. This may include requesting information about recruitment practices, employment terms, and working conditions, as well as checking that suppliers have their own modern slavery policies and training in place.

Where appropriate, we may conduct on-site inspections or request evidence to verify compliance. We will prioritise audits for suppliers operating in higher-risk sectors or regions. Non-compliance identified during an audit will result in a corrective action plan with clear timelines. Failure to meet these requirements may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Becontree Heath encourages staff, contractors, and suppliers to report any concerns or suspicions relating to modern slavery or human trafficking. We are committed to providing safe and accessible channels through which concerns can be raised confidentially and, where desired, anonymously.

Reports can be made to line managers or senior management, who are responsible for ensuring that all allegations are taken seriously and investigated promptly. We will not tolerate any form of victimisation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. All reports will be handled sensitively and, where appropriate, referred to the relevant authorities.

Training and Awareness

We aim to build awareness of modern slavery risks among our employees and key suppliers. Training and guidance are provided to those involved in procurement, recruitment, and site management so that they can recognise potential signs of exploitation and understand how to respond.

We also encourage our team members to stay informed about human rights issues within the sectors in which we operate, and to challenge any practices that may be inconsistent with our values and commitments.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior management of Gardeners Becontree Heath. They ensure that appropriate policies, due diligence measures, and reporting mechanisms are in place and functioning effectively.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every year to reflect any changes in legislation, guidance, our business operations, or the risk profile of our supply chains. As part of the annual review, we assess the effectiveness of our actions, consider feedback from stakeholders, and identify opportunities for improvement.

By publishing this statement, Gardeners Becontree Heath reaffirms its commitment to working towards a supply chain and workplace that are free from modern slavery and human trafficking, and to continually strengthening our practices to protect the rights and dignity of all workers.