Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Keston has taken, and is continuing to take, to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not taking place within our business or supply chains. Gardeners Keston is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our operations and relationships, and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard against any form of modern slavery.

Modern slavery is a crime and a fundamental violation of human rights. It can take many forms, including forced labour, child labour, servitude, domestic servitude, human trafficking, debt bondage, and other forms of exploitation. Gardeners Keston recognises its responsibility to contribute to the eradication of these practices and to promote fair, safe, and respectful working conditions.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Keston operates a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking in all their forms. We will not knowingly engage with or support any organisation, supplier, or individual involved in such practices. Any breach of this policy by employees, contractors, or suppliers will be treated as a serious matter and may result in disciplinary action, contract termination, or reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.

This zero-tolerance stance is communicated across our business and to our suppliers. We expect all those we work with to share our commitment to human rights, ethical conduct, and legal compliance. We are dedicated to embedding this principle into our culture, processes, and decision-making.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Audits

Gardeners Keston works with a range of suppliers that provide materials, equipment, and services to support our gardening and related activities. We recognise that risks of modern slavery can arise within complex supply chains, particularly where there are multiple tiers of subcontracting or sourcing from higher-risk regions or sectors.

To address these risks, we are developing and maintaining processes to assess and monitor our suppliers. This includes conducting risk-based supplier reviews and audits, where we evaluate compliance with labour standards, working conditions, and human rights expectations. Where appropriate, we require suppliers to confirm that they have their own modern slavery policies, due diligence processes, and effective controls in place.

If an audit or review raises concerns, we will engage with the supplier to seek corrective actions within a reasonable timeframe. If sufficient improvements are not made, Gardeners Keston reserves the right to suspend or end the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Keston encourages a culture of openness and accountability. We want all employees, contractors, and other stakeholders to feel confident in raising concerns about modern slavery, human trafficking, or any unethical conduct without fear of retaliation.

Concerns can be raised through established internal reporting channels, including line managers and senior management. Reports will be treated seriously, investigated promptly, and handled as sensitively and confidentially as possible. We will take appropriate action in response to any substantiated concern, which may include remedial measures, disciplinary steps, or reporting to external authorities.

We also expect our suppliers to maintain channels through which their workers can safely raise concerns about labour conditions and treatment. We encourage suppliers to notify us if they identify any actual or suspected cases of modern slavery linked to the goods or services provided to Gardeners Keston.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Keston is committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, supplier management, and on-site operations. Training and guidance are provided so that colleagues can recognise potential indicators of exploitation and know how to respond appropriately.

We review our internal policies, contractual terms, and supplier expectations on an ongoing basis to strengthen our approach. Where we identify areas for improvement, we take steps to enhance our procedures, guidance, and monitoring activities.

Annual Review and Approval

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement will be reviewed annually to ensure that it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. As part of the review, Gardeners Keston will consider any incidents, risk assessments, audit findings, and feedback from stakeholders in order to refine our efforts to prevent and address modern slavery.

The statement is approved by the leadership of Gardeners Keston, who are responsible for ensuring its implementation and for providing oversight of our modern slavery risk management activities. By issuing this statement, Gardeners Keston reaffirms its ongoing commitment to protecting human rights, promoting fair treatment, and operating with integrity throughout our business and supply chains.