Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Marks Gate

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Marks Gate to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships, and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard the rights and wellbeing of all individuals who contribute to our services.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Marks Gate operates with a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly work with any organisation, contractor, or supplier that is involved in, condones, or turns a blind eye to exploitative practices. This applies to all aspects of our gardening, maintenance, and support services, from direct employment to outsourced and seasonal work.

All employees, managers, and contractors are expected to uphold this policy and to act promptly if they have any concerns about potential modern slavery risks. Breaches of this policy may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts, and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.

Our Supply Chain Standards

Our supply chain includes providers of plants, tools, equipment, uniforms, site services, and specialist contractors. We seek to build long-term relationships with suppliers who share our values and demonstrate a clear commitment to ethical labour practices. We expect all suppliers to comply with national and international laws relating to labour, human rights, and health and safety.

As part of our onboarding process, suppliers are required to confirm that they do not use forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, that workers are employed of their own free will, and that fair and lawful employment terms are in place. We may request supporting information on policies, training, and due diligence measures undertaken by suppliers to combat modern slavery.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

Gardeners Marks Gate conducts proportionate risk-based due diligence on existing and potential suppliers. This may include desktop reviews, questionnaires, and onsite visits where appropriate. Our audits focus on working conditions, recruitment practices, use of labour agencies, wage and hour records, and mechanisms for workers to raise concerns.

Where risks are identified, we will work with suppliers to agree corrective action plans and timescales. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to demonstrate improvement or compliance, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the business relationship. Our goal is to use our influence to encourage better practices while ensuring that we do not contribute to exploitation.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone who works for or with Gardeners Marks Gate to report concerns about modern slavery, exploitation, or unethical behaviour. Concerns may relate to our own operations or to any part of our supply chain. Reports can be made to line managers or senior management in person or in writing.

All concerns will be taken seriously, treated sensitively, and investigated as appropriate. We are committed to ensuring that no one suffers any retaliation or disadvantage for raising a concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated. Where necessary, we will cooperate with law enforcement and relevant authorities to address confirmed cases of exploitation.

Training and Awareness

Gardeners Marks Gate is developing and maintaining training and guidance to ensure that relevant employees understand the signs of modern slavery and know how to respond. This includes managers involved in procurement, supplier management, and recruitment. Awareness is promoted through internal communications and policy briefings so that our zero-tolerance stance is clearly understood throughout the business.

We will continue to review and enhance our training materials to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, and emerging risks in the sectors in which we operate.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our response to modern slavery risks sits with the senior management of Gardeners Marks Gate. They are accountable for ensuring that appropriate policies, procedures, and controls are in place and that these remain effective and proportionate to the risks faced.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least once every twelve months, or more frequently if required by changes in law or the nature of our operations. The review will consider the effectiveness of our actions, feedback from stakeholders, audit outcomes, and any incidents or concerns raised. Following each review, we will update our processes and training as necessary to strengthen our approach.

This statement reflects the position of Gardeners Marks Gate as at the date of publication and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and protecting the dignity and rights of all workers connected to our business.