Modern Slavery Statement — Gardeners Sutton

Gardeners Sutton confirms its commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all areas of our business and supply chain. This Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Sutton outlines the steps we take to ensure we operate with integrity and respect for human rights. Our organisation has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards any form of forced labour, bonded labour, human trafficking or exploitation.

We are dedicated to embedding anti-slavery principles across our policies, procurement and everyday operations. The Gardeners Sutton anti-slavery stance is communicated to staff, contractors and suppliers and forms part of induction and ongoing training. We require all colleagues to understand the importance of vigilance and reporting, and we emphasise that breaches are treated as gross misconduct.

Our commitment extends beyond words: we undertake risk-based due diligence on suppliers, and expect partners to meet our standards. The Gardeners Sutton modern slavery statement defines supplier responsibilities, contract clauses and monitoring measures. We seek to work only with suppliers who share our ethical expectations and who take proactive steps to mitigate labour risks.

Supplier Audits, Due Diligence and Controls

Gardeners Sutton operates a structured supplier audit programme. We carry out risk assessments to determine which suppliers require more detailed review, and we perform on-site and remote audits where necessary. Audit criteria include working hours, recruitment practices, wage and benefit verification, and worker freedom of movement. Suppliers found non-compliant are required to implement corrective action plans within agreed timescales.

We maintain a continuous improvement approach: audit results feed into supplier performance ratings and contract renewal decisions. Where serious concerns are identified, we will suspend or terminate relationships. We also support remediation where appropriate, collaborating with suppliers to improve conditions rather than simply terminating contracts where constructive engagement is possible.

To support these controls we use contractual clauses, periodic reassessments and training for procurement teams to recognise red flags. Our procurement policy mandates background checks and verification of labour providers. We use a risk-based framework tailored to geographic and sector vulnerabilities.

• Supplier expectations: compliance with labour laws, transparent recruitment, and no use of recruitment fees.
• Audit steps: documentation checks, worker interviews, and corrective action tracking.
• Remediation: timelines for correction, monitoring and consequences for persistent breaches.

Reporting Channels, Monitoring and Annual Review

Gardeners Sutton provides multiple safe and confidential reporting channels so concerns about exploitation can be raised without fear of reprisal. Our whistleblowing procedures include secure, anonymous mechanisms and escalation routes to senior management. Staff and third parties are encouraged to report suspected modern slavery through these channels; allegations are investigated promptly and impartially.

We monitor performance using key indicators such as audit outcomes, supplier compliance rates and training completion. Regular internal reviews assess the effectiveness of our controls and ensure continuous improvement. All reports of potential modern slavery are logged, assessed for risk and acted upon in line with our investigative protocols.

Gardeners Sutton conducts an annual review of this statement and the policies that support it. This review evaluates the impact of our supplier audits, the reach of our reporting channels, and the outcomes of due diligence activities. Findings are used to revise procedures, enhance training and strengthen supplier engagement. In declaring these commitments, Gardeners Sutton reiterates its pledge to uphold human rights and to combat modern slavery in every form, consistent with our values and legal obligations.