Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the actions taken by Gardeners Enfield Lock to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold human rights and to ensure that the services and products we procure are sourced in an ethical and responsible manner.

Modern slavery is a crime and a violation of fundamental human rights. It can take various forms, including slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour, and human trafficking. Gardeners Enfield Lock is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery does not take place.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Enfield Lock operates a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy toward modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation, supplier, or individual involved in such practices. Any form of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour is strictly prohibited in our business and throughout our supply chains.

We expect all people working for or with Gardeners Enfield Lock, regardless of their role or location, to share and uphold this commitment. Breaches of our zero-tolerance policy are treated with the utmost seriousness and may lead to the termination of contracts, removal from approved supplier lists, and, where appropriate, referral to relevant authorities.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chains include providers of gardening materials, tools, equipment, transportation, and related services. We seek to work only with suppliers who demonstrate ethical practices and compliance with applicable labour and human rights legislation.

Gardeners Enfield Lock assesses modern slavery risks in its supply chains and expects suppliers to maintain transparent employment practices, including fair wages, safe working conditions, and respect for freedom of movement and association. We communicate our expectations to suppliers and require that they, in turn, promote similar standards within their own supply chains.

To monitor compliance, we conduct proportionate supplier checks and audits. These may include requests for supporting documentation, on-site visits where appropriate, and verification of labour and recruitment practices. Where risks or non-conformances are identified, we work with suppliers on corrective actions, with clear timeframes for improvement. Persistent or serious non-compliance may result in the suspension or ending of business relationships.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Enfield Lock encourages all employees, workers, contractors, and other stakeholders to raise concerns about any issue or suspicion of modern slavery in any part of our business or supply chains. We are committed to providing safe and accessible reporting channels and to ensuring that concerns are taken seriously and investigated promptly.

Reports can be made to line managers, senior management, or designated internal contacts. We will protect, as far as reasonably possible, the confidentiality of individuals who raise concerns in good faith and will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against anyone who reports suspected wrongdoing.

All concerns relating to modern slavery or human trafficking will be assessed and, where necessary, investigated. Where we identify genuine concerns, we will take appropriate remedial actions which may include engaging with suppliers, reviewing internal processes, or referring matters to external authorities.

Training and Awareness

We aim to ensure that relevant staff understand the risks of modern slavery and human trafficking and know how to identify and respond to potential issues. Awareness of our zero-tolerance stance and our reporting channels is promoted through internal communications and guidance. As our business evolves, we will continue to review and enhance our training and awareness efforts.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed at least annually by the management of Gardeners Enfield Lock. As part of this review, we assess the effectiveness of our current measures, consider feedback from stakeholders, and evaluate changes in our operations and supply chains that may affect modern slavery risks.

We are committed to strengthening our approach over time. Future enhancements may include more detailed supplier assessments, expanded training initiatives, and improved methods for measuring the impact of our actions. By regularly reviewing this statement and our underlying processes, Gardeners Enfield Lock aims to maintain a robust and evolving framework for preventing modern slavery and human trafficking across our business and supply chain.