Modern Slavery Statement — Gardeners Whitechapel

Gardeners Whitechapel publishes this Modern Slavery Statement and related anti-slavery declaration to make clear our enduring commitment to preventing forced labour, human trafficking and any form of exploitation in our business and supply chains. This modern slavery policy reflects our expectations of employees, suppliers and partners and sets out the actions we take to identify, assess and mitigate risks of modern slavery and labour abuses.

As a responsible community employer and service provider, Gardeners Whitechapel expects everyone connected with our work to adhere to this slavery and human trafficking statement. We use the term modern slavery broadly to include forced labour, bonded labour, slavery-like practices and any compulsion or coercion of workers. Our commitment is proactive and ongoing; we will not tolerate any form of exploitation.

This zero-tolerance approach means that any allegation of modern slavery will be taken seriously, investigated promptly and acted upon. Our zero-tolerance policy applies to all operations, whether directly employed staff, temporary workers or third-party contractors. Breaches of this modern slavery policy may lead to disciplinary action, contract termination and referral to enforcement authorities where appropriate.

Zero-Tolerance Policy and Expectations

Gardeners Whitechapel maintains a clear, written zero-tolerance policy that is communicated across the organisation and incorporated into procurement terms. We expect suppliers to meet the same standards and to demonstrate compliance through documentation, audits and corrective action plans. Our policies require lawful working conditions, freedom of movement, fair wages and the absence of deceptive recruitment practices.

Supplier audits form a central pillar of our approach to supplier due diligence. We carry out risk-based audits and reviews of key suppliers and service providers, prioritising those in higher-risk geographies or sectors. Audit activities include document checks, worker interviews, site visits and verification of payroll and recruitment processes to detect indicators of modern slavery.

Audit findings are followed by agreed remediation plans. Typical measures include improved payroll transparency, contract re-negotiation, worker grievance mechanisms and scheduled follow-up audits. Suppliers failing to remedy serious breaches may face contract suspension or termination under our anti-slavery statement terms.

Reporting Channels, Training and Remediation

Gardeners Whitechapel provides multiple reporting channels so concerns about forced labour or exploitation can be raised safely and confidentially. These include internal reporting lines, designated managers and a secure anonymous reporting mechanism. Reports are treated confidentially, and we protect whistleblowers from retaliation in accordance with our policies.

We train staff and procurement teams to recognise the signs of modern slavery and to escalate issues according to this modern slavery declaration. Training is mandatory for relevant staff and forms part of our supplier engagement programme; it covers detection, reporting, remediation and how to engage with vulnerable workers sensitively.

Gardeners Whitechapel conducts an annual review of this slavery and human trafficking statement and related controls. The review evaluates the effectiveness of supplier audits, reporting channels, training, and remediation actions, and informs any needed policy updates. Findings are considered at senior management level and incorporated into business planning.

We maintain records of due diligence, audit outcomes and remedial steps and monitor key performance indicators to drive continuous improvement. Our procurement contracts contain clauses requiring compliance with our modern slavery policy, the right to audit and the obligation to remediate. We also require suppliers to flow these expectations down their own supply chains.

By publishing this anti-slavery statement, Gardeners Whitechapel demonstrates its ongoing dedication to eradicating modern slavery from our operations and supply chains. We will continue to refine our approach through risk-based supplier engagement, targeted audits, strengthened reporting channels and regular policy review.

Ultimately, our aim is to ensure that no person working for or with Gardeners Whitechapel is subject to exploitation. This modern slavery statement is approved at senior level and will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective and aligned with best practice.