Gardeners Kenley Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Kenley to prevent modern slavery, forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, and child labour in our operations and supply chains. Gardeners Kenley provides gardening and grounds maintenance services, and we recognise our responsibility to act ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships.

Modern slavery is a severe violation of fundamental human rights. We are committed to ensuring that exploitation does not occur within our own activities or within the wider network of suppliers and contractors who support our services.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

Gardeners Kenley operates a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery. This policy applies to all directors, employees, temporary workers, subcontractors, and suppliers. We expect everyone who works with or for us to share this commitment.

We will not knowingly work with any organisation or individual that is involved in, or complicit with, modern slavery practices. Any breach or suspected breach of this policy is treated as a serious misconduct issue and may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts, or reporting to relevant enforcement bodies.

Our Supply Chain and Supplier Standards

Our supply chain includes providers of plants, gardening materials, tools, vehicles, protective equipment, and support services. We aim to work only with reputable suppliers who uphold high standards of labour, health and safety, and human rights.

Suppliers are expected to:

Comply with all applicable laws relating to employment, wages, working hours, and health and safety. Prohibit forced, bonded, or involuntary labour of any kind. Prohibit child labour that does not meet the legal minimum working age or interferes with education. Provide fair and transparent terms of employment and allow workers freedom of movement and freedom to leave employment with reasonable notice. Avoid practices such as recruitment fees, withholding of identity documents, or coercive disciplinary measures.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

Gardeners Kenley conducts proportionate due diligence checks on new and existing suppliers to assess the risk of modern slavery in our supply chain. This may include collecting information on labour practices, reviewing policies, and assessing geographical and sector risks.

Where appropriate, we carry out audits or site visits to suppliers, either directly or through third parties. These audits focus on working conditions, recruitment practices, wage records, and worker welfare. If concerns are identified, we will require corrective action plans with clear timelines. Continued non-compliance may result in suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Training, Awareness, and Employee Responsibilities

We communicate our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery to employees and relevant suppliers. Employees involved in procurement, supplier management, or site supervision receive additional guidance on recognising indicators of exploitation, such as signs of coercion, restricted movement, or unsafe working conditions.

All employees are responsible for remaining alert to the risks of modern slavery and for reporting any concerns promptly. Ignoring warning signs conflicts with our values and our legal and ethical responsibilities.

Reporting Channels and Handling Concerns

Gardeners Kenley encourages open reporting of any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery. Concerns can be raised directly with a line manager or a senior member of the management team. Reports can be made confidentially and will be treated seriously and sensitively.

No employee, worker, or supplier will suffer retaliation or disadvantage for raising a concern in good faith. Reported matters will be investigated promptly and, where necessary, we will take appropriate action, which may include cooperation with law enforcement or regulatory authorities.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing process that requires vigilance and continuous improvement. Gardeners Kenley is committed to regularly reviewing and refining our policies, risk assessments, and due diligence procedures to respond to emerging risks and best practice.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the management team to assess its effectiveness and to identify areas for further action. The review considers feedback from audits, supplier performance, employee reports, and changes in legislation or guidance. Updated versions of this statement will reflect any new measures we implement to strengthen our approach.

This statement has been approved by the management of Gardeners Kenley and represents our current position and commitments in relation to modern slavery and human trafficking.