Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Shacklewell

Gardeners Shacklewell is committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent forced labour, human trafficking, servitude, and exploitation within our operations and supply chain. We recognise that zero tolerance is essential: any form of modern slavery is unacceptable, whether it occurs directly in our own work or indirectly through suppliers, contractors, or service partners.

Our commitment applies across all parts of the business, from procurement and workforce management to subcontracted services and materials sourcing. As a responsible gardening service provider, Gardeners Shacklewell expects the same ethical standards from those who work with us. We aim to ensure that every relationship is built on lawful employment, fair treatment, and safe working conditions.

To support this commitment, we carry out risk-based due diligence on suppliers and review their practices before and during engagement. This includes checks on working conditions, recruitment methods, wage practices, and the right to work. Where appropriate, we request evidence of policies, training, and labour standards, and we reserve the right to suspend or end relationships if concerns are identified.

Supplier Oversight and Accountability

Gardeners Shacklewell uses supplier audits as a key control measure. These audits may be announced or unannounced depending on the level of risk and the nature of the service provided. During an audit, we look for signs of coercion, debt bondage, withheld documents, excessive hours, unsafe accommodation, or any indication that workers are not free to leave. Findings are recorded, tracked, and followed up until closure.

Training and awareness are also important to our approach. Staff involved in purchasing, hiring, and site supervision receive guidance on recognising warning signs and escalating concerns. We encourage managers to remain alert to unusual subcontracting arrangements, inconsistent payroll information, or behaviour that may suggest pressure or control over workers. This helps us strengthen our prevention measures throughout the year.

Where a potential issue is identified, we respond promptly and proportionately. We may request corrective action, increase monitoring, or engage specialist support where needed. If a supplier fails to cooperate or remediate serious concerns, we will take decisive action, including ending the relationship. Our aim is not only compliance, but meaningful improvement across the Gardeners Shacklewell supply chain.

Reporting, Safeguarding, and Review

We provide clear reporting channels so that workers, suppliers, and internal teams can raise concerns without fear of retaliation. Reports may be made through line managers, senior management, or designated safeguarding leads. Every concern is handled with discretion, and where possible, confidentiality is maintained. We do not tolerate victimisation of anyone who speaks up in good faith, and we treat all allegations seriously.

In line with our safeguarding responsibilities, Gardeners Shacklewell seeks to create a culture where openness is valued and risks can be identified early. This includes monitoring recruitment practices, verifying labour status where relevant, and ensuring that no worker is subject to threats, intimidation, or document retention. By maintaining strong controls, we reduce the chance that exploitation could occur unnoticed.

This statement will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and operational changes. Each review considers audit outcomes, reported concerns, supplier performance, and any emerging sector risks. Where improvements are needed, we update our processes, strengthen training, and refine our oversight.

Our Ongoing Commitment

Gardeners Shacklewell believes that ethical business practice must be demonstrated through action, not words alone. By applying a zero-tolerance policy, strengthening supplier audits, maintaining accessible reporting channels, and completing an annual review, we continue to improve how we identify and prevent modern slavery. We are committed to working only with people and organisations that respect dignity, legality, and human rights.

This statement reflects our current approach and will evolve as our business and supply chain develop. We remain dedicated to continuous improvement and to ensuring that modern slavery has no place in the work we do.