Gardeners Lee Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Gardeners Lee is committed to conducting all aspects of its business ethically, responsibly, and with full respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our own operations and in our supply chains. It applies to all employees, workers, contractors, and suppliers engaged by Gardeners Lee.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Lee has a strict zero-tolerance policy to all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, servitude, debt bondage, child labour, and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with or support any organisation, individual, or practice that is involved in such activities, directly or indirectly. Any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery is treated as a serious breach of our standards and may result in termination of relationships, disciplinary measures, and reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.

All colleagues, regardless of position or seniority, are expected to support this commitment and act in a way that promotes dignity, fairness, and respect across all working relationships.

Supply Chain Standards and Due Diligence

Our supply chain includes suppliers of plants, materials, tools, equipment, uniforms, transport, facilities, and a range of professional services. We expect all suppliers to uphold labour and human rights standards consistent with our own. As part of our due diligence, we assess new and existing suppliers on their approach to labour practices, workplace conditions, and ethical sourcing.

Gardeners Lee requires that suppliers confirm compliance with applicable labour and human rights laws and demonstrate that they do not tolerate modern slavery within their operations or extended supply chains. Where necessary, we seek assurances about recruitment practices, the use of labour agencies, and protections for temporary, migrant, and seasonal workers.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

To support the effective implementation of our zero-tolerance policy, Gardeners Lee undertakes proportionate and risk-based monitoring of suppliers. This may include on-site visits, document reviews, and discussions with management and workers to understand working conditions and labour practices.

Where we identify elevated risk, we may conduct targeted audits to examine working hours, pay practices, recruitment fees, worker documentation, and grievance mechanisms. If non-compliance or concerning practices are identified, we work with the supplier to develop corrective action plans with clear timelines. Persistent or serious failures to address concerns may result in suspension or termination of the supplier relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Lee encourages everyone associated with our business, including employees, contractors, and suppliers, to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery, unsafe or unfair working conditions, or unlawful labour practices. Concerns can be raised confidentially through internal reporting routes or directly to line managers or senior management.

We are committed to ensuring that no person who raises a concern in good faith is subjected to retaliation, victimisation, or disadvantage. All reports are taken seriously, reviewed promptly, and, where appropriate, investigated. We will cooperate with law enforcement and regulatory bodies where allegations of modern slavery arise.

Training and Awareness

Gardeners Lee provides relevant training and guidance to managers, procurement teams, and employees whose roles involve engaging with suppliers or overseeing labour practices. This training covers recognising indicators of modern slavery, undertaking due diligence, and using the established reporting channels.

We also seek to raise awareness among our wider workforce about human rights, ethical sourcing, and the importance of identifying and escalating concerns so that issues can be addressed swiftly and effectively.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed annually by the leadership of Gardeners Lee to ensure that it remains effective, relevant, and reflective of best practice and legal requirements. As part of the review, we consider the findings of audits, the effectiveness of our reporting channels, feedback from stakeholders, and any incidents or emerging risks in our sector.

Gardeners Lee is committed to continuous improvement. We will refine our procedures, strengthen our supplier engagement, and enhance training as necessary to ensure that we are doing all we reasonably can to prevent and address modern slavery in our operations and supply chains.

This statement is approved by the leadership of Gardeners Lee and represents our ongoing commitment to ethical conduct and the protection of fundamental human rights.