Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Goddington

Gardeners Goddington is committed to conducting all aspects of its operations with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains. We recognise that even within landscaping and outdoor maintenance, risks can exist in labour sourcing, subcontracting, and material procurement. Our zero-tolerance stance applies to forced labour, servitude, child labour, debt bondage, and any form of exploitation. We expect the highest ethical standards from everyone who works with or on behalf of Gardeners Goddington.

Our approach is founded on clear policies, due diligence, and ongoing monitoring. We require all employees, contractors, and suppliers to comply with applicable labour laws and to uphold fair working conditions. This includes accurate right-to-work checks, lawful wage practices, safe working environments, and freedom from coercion. The statement applies across our gardening services, grounds maintenance, seasonal labour, and any outsourced activity connected to the Gardeners Goddington name.

We communicate our expectations through onboarding, procurement processes, and contractual terms. Any individual or organisation acting for Gardeners Goddington must understand that exploitation, hidden recruitment fees, or the retention of identity documents are unacceptable. Where concerns are identified, we investigate promptly and take corrective action without delay. Our commitment is not limited to policy wording; it is embedded in day-to-day decisions and supplier selection.

Supplier oversight is a core part of our modern slavery risk management. We conduct proportionate supplier audits, beginning with higher-risk categories such as labour provision, subcontracted work, and imported goods. These audits review worker recruitment practices, pay records, working hours, accommodation arrangements where relevant, and evidence of lawful employment. Gardeners Goddington may also request supporting documents or site visits where additional assurance is needed.

When audit findings indicate a potential breach, we require a corrective action plan with clear deadlines. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to improve, we will suspend or end the relationship. Our supplier audits are designed to be practical and preventative, helping us identify risk early rather than waiting for harm to occur. We also encourage suppliers to carry out their own checks throughout their supply chains, creating a wider culture of accountability.

Risk assessment is reviewed regularly, with attention to geography, sector, labour model, and the vulnerability of workers involved. Where we identify higher exposure, we apply enhanced controls, including additional paperwork review and management sign-off. This measured approach helps ensure that Gardeners Goddington remains vigilant while maintaining fair and efficient service delivery.

Reporting channels are available to anyone who suspects wrongdoing linked to our operations. Employees, workers, subcontractors, and suppliers are encouraged to raise concerns about exploitation, unsafe recruitment, withheld pay, or any behaviour that may suggest modern slavery. Reports may be made confidentially through internal management routes, and all concerns are treated seriously, sensitively, and without retaliation.

We make it clear that speaking up is a responsibility as well as a right. Matters raised through our reporting channels are reviewed promptly, and appropriate steps are taken to investigate, protect affected individuals, and preserve evidence. If a concern is substantiated, Gardeners Goddington will act decisively, which may include temporary suspension of work, escalation to relevant authorities, or termination of a relationship where necessary.

Training supports this reporting culture. Managers and procurement staff receive guidance on recognising warning signs such as inconsistent documents, unexplained wage deductions, restricted movement, or signs of intimidation. By strengthening awareness, Gardeners Goddington increases the likelihood that risks will be identified early and addressed effectively before they escalate.

This statement is subject to an annual review to ensure it remains effective, current, and aligned with evolving legal expectations and business practices. Each year, Gardeners Goddington assesses incidents, audit outcomes, training completion, and supplier performance to measure progress and identify improvements. The review also considers whether further controls are needed in procurement, contracting, or workforce management.

Where changes are required, we update policies and procedures accordingly and reinforce them through communication and training. Our leadership team remains accountable for overseeing progress and setting the tone from the top. We believe that preventing modern slavery requires continual attention, disciplined management, and a genuine commitment to ethical practice.

Gardeners Goddington will continue to strengthen safeguards, maintain a zero-tolerance policy, and work with responsible partners who share our values. By combining supplier audits, effective reporting channels, and annual review, we aim to protect workers, support lawful employment, and uphold the trust placed in our name.