Gardeners Childs Hill Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Gardeners Childs Hill for the financial year ending 31 December and sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our own operations and throughout our supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights, and we are committed to acting ethically, transparently, and with integrity in all our business dealings.

Our Organisation and Supply Chains

Gardeners Childs Hill provides gardening and related services within the United Kingdom. Our activities rely on a combination of directly engaged staff, subcontractors, and a range of suppliers who provide plants, materials, tools, equipment, uniforms, and support services. We understand that risks of modern slavery can arise particularly within extended and international supply chains and in lower skilled or seasonal work.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, servitude, and child labour. This policy applies to everyone working for or on behalf of Gardeners Childs Hill, including employees, subcontractors, agency workers, and business partners. We expect the same high standards from all our suppliers and require that they uphold human rights, comply with applicable labour laws, and actively prevent any form of exploitation in their own operations and supply chains.

Contracts and purchase arrangements with our suppliers are based on lawful, voluntary, and fairly rewarded work. Any breach or suspected breach of our zero-tolerance policy will be investigated and may result in termination of the business relationship and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.

Due Diligence and Supplier Audits

To manage and reduce the risk of modern slavery, Gardeners Childs Hill undertakes proportionate due diligence on existing and prospective suppliers. This includes assessing the nature of the goods and services provided, the geographic location of operations, and the supplier’s own approach to labour and human rights.

We reserve the right to conduct supplier audits, which may include requesting documentary evidence, risk questionnaires, on-site inspections where appropriate, and discussions with management about working conditions and recruitment practices. Where higher risks are identified, we will seek additional assurances, action plans, or improvements. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to address concerns about modern slavery, we will reconsider or discontinue the relationship.

Training, Awareness and Responsibilities

Responsibility for implementing this statement and policy sits with the senior management of Gardeners Childs Hill, who ensure that modern slavery considerations are integrated into procurement and operational decision making. Relevant employees involved in procurement, contractor management, or supervision of on-site work are made aware of the indicators of modern slavery and how to raise concerns.

We aim to build awareness among our teams so that they can recognise signs of exploitation, such as restricted freedom of movement, withholding of wages or documents, or signs of coercion. We encourage a culture in which ethical concerns are taken seriously and acted upon promptly.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Childs Hill encourages anyone who works for us, supplies us, or interacts with our services to report any concerns related to modern slavery or human trafficking. Concerns may include suspected exploitation of workers, unreasonable recruitment fees, threats or intimidation, or unsafe and degrading working conditions within our operations or our supply chains.

Reports can be made to line managers, senior management, or through existing internal reporting procedures. Individuals who raise concerns in good faith will not suffer any detrimental treatment as a result of speaking up. We will treat all reports seriously, investigate them appropriately, and take remedial action where necessary, including working with authorities and support organisations as required.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing process requiring continuous vigilance and improvement. Gardeners Childs Hill is committed to regularly reviewing our policies, procedures, and risk assessments to strengthen our approach. We will monitor the effectiveness of our supplier due diligence, audits, and training efforts to ensure they remain appropriate and proportionate to the risks we face.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed, updated, and approved by senior management on an annual basis, or sooner if there are significant changes in our business structure, supply chains, or legal requirements. By maintaining this annual review cycle, we aim to ensure that our actions remain aligned with best practice and that we continue to uphold the highest standards of integrity and respect for human rights.

This statement has been approved by the management of Gardeners Childs Hill and is published as our commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all that we do.