Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Crayford has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business operations and supply chains. Gardeners Crayford recognises that modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights, and we are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Crayford has a clear zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly work with any organisation or individual that is involved in, benefits from, or turns a blind eye to forced labour, child labour, servitude, human trafficking, or any form of exploitation. Our leadership team is responsible for ensuring that this policy is embedded across our business and that all staff understand their role in upholding it.

We expect the same high standards from all our contractors, suppliers, and other business partners. Our zero-tolerance position is communicated through our procurement processes, contractual terms where applicable, and ongoing engagement with suppliers.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners Crayford operates in the gardening, grounds maintenance, and related services sector. Our supply chains include the sourcing of plants, materials, equipment, workwear, and associated services. While our operations are not typically high risk compared with some global industries, we recognise that risks can exist at any stage of a supply chain, particularly where products or components originate from regions with weaker labour protections.

We are committed to gaining and maintaining visibility over our supply chains and to working only with suppliers who share our values and demonstrate respect for human rights.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all suppliers and contractors to comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. We seek to work with organisations that are open, transparent, and willing to provide evidence of responsible labour practices. Where appropriate, we ask suppliers to confirm that they have their own modern slavery policies or equivalent commitments and that they cascade these requirements to their own supply chain.

Gardeners Crayford undertakes proportionate checks and audits of key suppliers. These reviews may include questionnaires, requests for supporting documentation, and site visits where feasible. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to provide satisfactory evidence of compliance, we will take appropriate action, which may include working with them on improvements, suspending orders, or terminating the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone who works for or with Gardeners Crayford, as well as any other stakeholder, to report concerns about potential modern slavery or human rights abuses linked to our business or supply chains. Concerns can be raised confidentially through internal management channels or directly to senior leadership. Reports may relate to suspected forced labour, unsafe or degrading working conditions, the withholding of identity documents, or any other indicators of exploitation.

We will treat all concerns seriously, investigate them promptly, and take appropriate remedial action. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith, whether the allegation is ultimately substantiated or not.

Training and Awareness

Gardeners Crayford is committed to building awareness among staff so that they can recognise the signs of modern slavery and understand how to respond. Training and guidance are provided to relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, supplier management, and on-site supervision. We keep this guidance under review and update it to reflect emerging risks and good practice.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

We recognise that addressing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility rather than a one-off exercise. Gardeners Crayford will review this statement and our related policies, controls, and due diligence processes at least once every year. This annual review will consider changes in our business activities, updates to legislation, and any learning from incidents, audits, or supplier engagement.

Where areas for improvement are identified, we will develop and implement action plans, which may include strengthening supplier requirements, enhancing audit processes, or providing additional staff training. We are committed to continuous improvement and to working collaboratively with suppliers, partners, and stakeholders to help eradicate modern slavery in all its forms.

Approval of this Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Crayford, who take overall responsibility for ensuring its implementation and effectiveness. It will be reviewed and updated annually to reflect our ongoing efforts to combat modern slavery within our business and supply chains.