Gardeners Barking Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Barking affirms a clear and uncompromising position against forced labour, human trafficking and all forms of modern slavery. This statement outlines how Gardeners of Barking operates with a zero-tolerance policy towards exploitation across our operations and supply chain. We publish this declaration to make explicit our commitments and the practical steps we take to identify, prevent and address slavery and human trafficking risks.

Our organisation, referred to here as the Gardeners Barking anti-slavery policy, applies to all employees, contractors and partners. We expect everyone engaged with Gardeners Barking to adhere to our standards. The policy is embedded into our procurement and operational procedures and reinforced through training, mandatory clauses in supplier agreements and periodic compliance checks.

Scope and approach for the Gardeners Barking modern slavery report

To implement effective due diligence we maintain a risk-based process that assesses potential exposure in sourcing, service delivery and seasonal labour. The approach covers direct hires, subcontractors and places particular emphasis on labour-supply intermediaries. Our audit and verification work focuses on high-risk suppliers and regions, and we require corrective action plans where issues are identified.

Zero-Tolerance Policy and Expectations

Gardeners Barking operates a strict zero-tolerance stance: any instance of forced labour, coercion, document retention or exploitation will trigger immediate investigation and may result in termination of contracts. We prohibit the withholding of identity documents, withholding of wages, excessive working hours without consent and the charging of recruitment fees by third parties.

Supplier audits and verification form a central pillar of our prevention strategy. We conduct regular audits—both announced and unannounced—targeting suppliers and service providers identified through our risk assessments. Audit activities include document review, worker interviews and workplace inspections. When auditors identify gaps, suppliers must implement remediation plans within agreed timelines and may face escalating sanctions for non-compliance.

Our supplier code of conduct includes mandatory clauses requiring suppliers to comply with local labour laws and with the principles set out in this statement. Contracts with new suppliers include due diligence checks before onboarding and contractual rights to audit and to terminate where necessary.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We provide multiple, secure reporting channels to enable employees, contractors and third parties to raise concerns. Reports can be raised anonymously and are treated seriously and confidentially. Gardeners Barking encourages the use of internal reporting lines, and assures protection from retaliation for good-faith reporting.

To strengthen transparency we maintain a formal incident response protocol: allegations are logged, investigated by trained personnel and escalated to senior management. Where appropriate, we engage with law enforcement and specialist support services while prioritising the safety and wellbeing of affected individuals.

• Training: Regular awareness training for staff and managers on recognising signs of exploitation.
• Risk Assessment: Periodic supply-chain risk reviews and targeted mitigation actions.
• Remediation: Clear steps to support victims and remediate breaches.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Barking commits to an annual review of this Modern Slavery Statement and of our policies and procedures. The review evaluates audit findings, the effectiveness of training, the adequacy of reporting mechanisms and corrective actions taken. Outcomes inform policy updates, resource allocation and any enhancements to supplier engagement practices.

We continually refine our risk-based methodology and engage with industry peers to adopt best practices. This statement will be reviewed and updated at least once every 12 months or sooner if legislative or operational changes require it. The review process includes input from senior management, procurement, HR and compliance teams, ensuring that our anti-slavery measures remain robust and relevant.

Gardeners Barking remains committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all its forms. We will continue to foster responsible business practices, uphold the dignity of workers, and ensure that our supply chain reflects the ethical standards we expect of ourselves. This declaration represents our ongoing commitment to combatting exploitation and promoting fair, transparent labour practices across the Gardeners Barking community.