Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Fulwell Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Fulwell has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights, and we are committed to maintaining and improving systems and controls to ensure it has no place in our business.

This statement covers our financial year and will be reviewed and updated on an annual basis to reflect the progress of our ongoing efforts.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Fulwell operates on the principle that every individual must be treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. We have a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour where it is exploitative or unlawful, human trafficking, and any activity that exploits vulnerable workers.

We expect the same high standards from all our suppliers, contractors, and business partners. Any association with modern slavery is entirely incompatible with our values and our approach to doing business. Where we identify breaches or credible concerns, we will take prompt and decisive action, which may include suspending or terminating commercial relationships.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Standards

Our supply chains include the sourcing of horticultural products, tools, equipment, uniforms, and a range of services that support our operations. We recognise that risks can arise at different tiers of the supply chain, especially where there is extensive use of temporary labour or subcontracting.

To mitigate these risks, we are working to embed clear expectations on labour standards within our purchasing decisions. We aim to work with suppliers who share our commitment to ethical practices and who can demonstrate active measures to prevent modern slavery in their own operations and supply chains.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

Gardeners Fulwell is developing and implementing a risk-based due diligence process to assess both new and existing suppliers. This process includes, where appropriate, supplier questionnaires, contractual clauses setting out our standards, and the right to request information on labour practices and working conditions.

We may carry out audits or spot checks of higher-risk suppliers, either directly or through competent third parties. These audits are designed to review working hours, pay practices, recruitment methods, use of agencies, worker documentation, and grievance mechanisms. Where issues are identified, we will work collaboratively with the supplier to develop a corrective action plan and monitor progress, and we reserve the right to end relationships where serious non-compliance persists.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone connected with Gardeners Fulwell, including employees, workers within our supply chains, and other stakeholders, to raise concerns about potential modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised through our established internal reporting channels or directly to management at any time.

Reports will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith, even if that concern is not ultimately substantiated. Where issues are identified, we will take appropriate remedial action and, where necessary, cooperate with relevant authorities.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We are committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery risks among our employees, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and contract management. Training and guidance are being developed to help staff recognise potential warning signs and understand how to respond to concerns.

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. Gardeners Fulwell will continue to review and enhance our policies, due diligence processes, and supplier engagement to strengthen our approach over time.

Annual Review and Board Approval

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually to assess the effectiveness of our actions, identify areas for improvement, and reflect any changes in regulation or best practice. Updates are considered and approved at a senior level within Gardeners Fulwell to ensure clear accountability and oversight.

By publishing this statement, Gardeners Fulwell reaffirms its commitment to operating in an ethical and responsible manner and to playing its part in the wider effort to eradicate modern slavery and human trafficking from all business activities and supply chains.