Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners St Johns
At Gardeners St Johns, we are committed to conducting our operations with integrity, respect, and accountability. This modern slavery statement sets out the practical steps we take to help prevent slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and any form of exploitation within our business and supply chain. Our zero-tolerance approach applies to every area of activity, from procurement to service delivery, and it reflects our belief that all people should be treated fairly and with dignity.
Modern slavery can take many forms, including servitude, debt bondage, child labour, and coercion. As a responsible gardening and landscaping business, we recognise that risks may exist in labour sourcing, material supply, transport, and outsourced services. Gardeners St Johns therefore maintains a clear framework of controls, due diligence, and monitoring measures to reduce these risks and promote ethical working practices.
We expect all employees, contractors, and partners to uphold our standards. Any breach of our anti-slavery commitments is taken seriously and may result in disciplinary action, contract termination, or removal from our approved supplier list. This commitment is supported by training, internal oversight, and ongoing awareness so that everyone associated with Gardeners St Johns understands their role in preventing exploitation.
Our supply chain management process is designed to identify and address risk early. Before engaging with new suppliers, we carry out proportionate checks based on the nature of the goods or services provided, their geographic location, and the potential vulnerability of workers involved. These checks may include reviewing business practices, labour arrangements, and any known compliance concerns. Where risks are identified, we require corrective action before proceeding.
We also conduct supplier audits on a regular basis. These audits are intended to verify that our partners meet expected labour standards and operate in line with legal and ethical requirements. When necessary, audits may involve document review, site assessment, worker welfare checks, and follow-up monitoring. If a supplier fails to meet our standards, we will work with them to implement improvements or, where required, end the relationship.
To support transparency and accountability, Gardeners St Johns has established reporting channels that allow concerns to be raised promptly and safely. Employees and associated workers are encouraged to report any suspicion of exploitation, unsafe labour practices, or unethical conduct through internal reporting routes. Concerns are handled sensitively, investigated thoroughly, and escalated when appropriate. We do not tolerate retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith.
Our approach includes clear responsibilities across the organisation. Managers are expected to monitor employment practices, review supplier performance, and ensure that any signs of risk are addressed quickly. Procurement decisions take account of ethical considerations, not only cost and delivery. By embedding these principles into everyday operations, Gardeners St Johns strengthens its ability to detect and prevent abuse.
Awareness is reinforced through internal communication and periodic refresher training. Staff are reminded to look for warning signs such as unusual payment arrangements, restricted movement, withholding of documents, or workers appearing afraid to speak openly. If concerns arise, they are investigated without delay and, where necessary, referred to the relevant authorities. This proactive stance helps protect vulnerable individuals and supports responsible business conduct.
We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility rather than a one-time exercise. Risks can change as markets shift, suppliers evolve, and operational needs develop. For that reason, this statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant, effective, and aligned with current legislation and best practice. The review also considers audit outcomes, reported concerns, and any improvements needed in our controls.
In the year ahead, Gardeners St Johns will continue to strengthen due diligence, improve supplier oversight, and maintain accessible reporting channels. Our aim is to promote a supply chain built on fairness, transparency, and respect for human rights. Through consistent action and annual review, we seek to ensure our modern slavery statement remains a meaningful expression of our values and responsibilities.