Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Belmont Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Belmont has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard the people who work for us and with us.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Belmont maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, servitude, debt bondage, and human trafficking. We do not accept any practice that exploits individuals, undermines their dignity, or denies them their fundamental human rights. This position applies equally to our own operations and to the conduct of any third party acting on our behalf.

All directors, managers, employees, contractors, and agency staff are expected to uphold this policy. We clearly communicate that any breach of our zero-tolerance stance is treated as a serious matter and may result in disciplinary action, termination of employment or contract, and, where appropriate, notification to relevant authorities.

Scope of Operations and Supply Chain

Gardeners Belmont provides gardening and related services and works with a network of suppliers, subcontractors, and service providers to support our activities. These may include suppliers of plants, equipment, materials, uniforms, transport services, and other operational needs. We recognise that modern slavery risks can occur at any point in the supply chain, particularly where there is reliance on low-skilled or seasonal labour, or where suppliers operate in sectors or regions with weaker labour protections.

We are committed to gaining increasing visibility over our supply chain so that risks can be identified, assessed, and addressed in a systematic way.

Supplier Standards and Audits

Gardeners Belmont expects all suppliers and contractors to comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws and to adhere to our ethical standards. We seek to work only with those who share our commitment to preventing modern slavery and who are willing to cooperate with our due diligence processes.

Our approach to supplier oversight includes supplier approval checks, ongoing risk-based assessments, and periodic audits. Where appropriate, we review supplier policies, workforce practices, and recruitment arrangements to identify potential indicators of exploitation, such as retention of identity documents, recruitment fees, or restrictions on freedom of movement.

Where concerns are identified, we engage with the supplier to agree on corrective actions within defined timeframes. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to address issues in line with our expectations, we reserve the right to review, suspend, or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Speaking Up

We encourage a culture of openness in which concerns about modern slavery and unethical labour practices can be raised without fear of retaliation. All employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery, whether within Gardeners Belmont or in any part of our supply chain.

Concerns can be raised through internal reporting channels, including to line managers or senior management. Reports may be made confidentially, and any information shared will be treated sensitively and, where possible, kept secure. We do not tolerate victimisation of any person who raises a concern in good faith.

All reports are assessed promptly, and appropriate steps are taken to investigate and address any issues identified. Where necessary, we will cooperate with law enforcement and relevant agencies.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities

Gardeners Belmont recognises that effective prevention of modern slavery requires awareness and vigilance across the organisation. Managers and key personnel involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management are made aware of modern slavery risks and the indicators of potential exploitation. Responsibilities for implementing and monitoring our modern slavery controls are clearly defined within management roles.

We periodically review internal guidance to ensure that staff understand how to identify risks, how to escalate concerns, and how to apply our zero-tolerance policy in day-to-day decision making.

Monitoring, Annual Review, and Continuous Improvement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with evolving best practice and legislative requirements. As part of the annual review, we evaluate the effectiveness of our policies, supplier audits, and reporting channels and consider opportunities to strengthen our approach.

Future actions may include refining our risk assessment methodology, expanding the scope of supplier audits, enhancing staff training, and increasing engagement with suppliers on responsible labour standards. Gardeners Belmont is committed to continuous improvement and to building long-term, ethical relationships throughout our supply chain.

This statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Belmont, who are responsible for ensuring its implementation and ongoing effectiveness.