Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Arkley Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Arkley to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business operations and supply chains. Gardeners Arkley recognises that modern slavery is a serious violation of fundamental human rights and is committed to operating with integrity, transparency, and respect for all individuals.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Arkley has a clear zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and all forms of exploitation. This applies to every aspect of our business, including our direct operations, agency workers, contractors, and all tiers of our supply chain. We expect the same high standards from all our suppliers and business partners.

We are committed to ensuring that no one who works for or with Gardeners Arkley is subjected to abuse, coercion, deception, or any conditions that constitute modern slavery. Any suspected breach of this policy will be treated as a serious matter and may result in termination of relationships with individuals or organisations found to be involved in exploitative practices.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners Arkley operates in the gardening and related services sector. Our activities involve the provision of gardening, landscaping, and associated support services. We engage with a range of suppliers who provide products, tools, equipment, uniforms, and specialist services that support our operations.

We recognise that certain sectors and regions carry a higher risk of modern slavery. As our business develops, we review our supply chains to identify and assess potential areas of risk, with particular attention to suppliers who rely on seasonal or low-skilled labour, and those based in jurisdictions where labour protections may be weaker or less enforced.

Supplier Standards and Audits

Gardeners Arkley expects all suppliers and contractors to share our commitment to combating modern slavery. We require our suppliers to comply with all relevant legislation relating to employment, labour, and human rights, and to ensure that their own supply chains are free from slavery and human trafficking.

We are committed to carrying out proportionate supplier due diligence, which may include requesting information on labour practices, reviewing relevant policies, and where necessary conducting audits or site visits. Where potential risks are identified, we will work collaboratively with suppliers to improve standards. If a supplier is unwilling or unable to demonstrate adequate controls to prevent modern slavery, Gardeners Arkley may suspend or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Arkley encourages all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to raise concerns about modern slavery, human trafficking, or any unethical conduct. We are committed to providing accessible and confidential channels for reporting concerns and to ensuring that everyone who raises a concern in good faith is protected from retaliation.

Concerns can be raised with line managers, senior management, or through established internal reporting routes. We will investigate all reports promptly, sensitively, and thoroughly. Where appropriate, we will involve external advisors or authorities. If modern slavery is identified or suspected, we will take immediate steps to safeguard any affected individuals, cooperate with relevant agencies, and take corrective action within our business and supply chains.

Training and Awareness

To reinforce our zero-tolerance stance, Gardeners Arkley aims to raise awareness among relevant employees about the risks and signs of modern slavery. Training and guidance help team members identify indicators of exploitation and understand how to report concerns. We also communicate our expectations to suppliers and contractors as part of our ongoing relationship management.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing this Modern Slavery Statement and related initiatives rests with the senior management of Gardeners Arkley. We monitor the effectiveness of our actions through periodic risk assessments, reviews of supplier performance, and analysis of any concerns raised through our reporting channels.

This statement will be reviewed at least annually to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with best practice and legislative requirements. As our business and supply chains evolve, we will continue to refine our approach, strengthen our controls, and enhance our engagement with suppliers and stakeholders. The updated statement will reflect any significant improvements to our policies, procedures, and due diligence processes.

This Modern Slavery Statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Arkley and represents our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our business.