Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Shirley Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Shirley is committed to conducting all aspects of its business in an ethical and responsible manner. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation across our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to respect human rights and to ensure that everyone working with or for Gardeners Shirley is treated with dignity and fairness.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Shirley has a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery in all its forms. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, contractor, or organisation involved in practices that constitute modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, human trafficking, servitude, or any form of exploitation. This commitment applies to our employees, agency workers, contractors, and all suppliers providing goods and services to the business.

We expect all those we work with to share our commitment to ethical labour practices. Where we identify behaviour or risks that conflict with this policy, we will act promptly, which may include suspending or terminating the business relationship.

Supply Chain Standards and Due Diligence

Our supply chain includes providers of gardening products, tools, equipment, uniforms, transport, and support services. We seek to build long-term relationships with suppliers who demonstrate strong labour standards and transparent practices. Gardeners Shirley requires suppliers to comply with all applicable labour and human rights laws in the jurisdictions where they operate and to maintain safe, fair, and respectful working conditions.

As part of our due diligence, we assess new suppliers based on their approach to ethical trading, employment conditions, and worker welfare. We reserve the right to request supporting documentation and evidence of compliance, such as labour policies, codes of conduct, and relevant certifications.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

To reinforce our zero-tolerance policy, Gardeners Shirley uses supplier audits and ongoing monitoring to identify and address potential risks of modern slavery. Audits may be conducted directly by Gardeners Shirley or by suitably qualified third parties. These audits can include site visits, document reviews, and discussions with management and workers to evaluate labour practices and working conditions.

Where concerns are identified, we work collaboratively with the supplier to implement corrective actions within clearly defined timeframes. If a supplier fails to address issues adequately or demonstrates unwillingness to improve, Gardeners Shirley may end the relationship. We continually review the effectiveness of our audit processes and adapt them in response to emerging risks and best practices.

Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Shirley encourages anyone connected with our business, including employees, workers in our supply chain, and other stakeholders, to report concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices. We are committed to ensuring that all reports are taken seriously, treated sensitively, and investigated thoroughly, and that individuals raising genuine concerns are protected from retaliation or detrimental treatment.

Concerns can be raised through internal management channels or directly to senior leadership within Gardeners Shirley. Reports may be made anonymously where permitted by local law. We will promptly investigate all reports, take appropriate remedial action, and, where necessary, engage with relevant external bodies or authorities.

Training and Awareness

We recognise that effective prevention of modern slavery requires understanding and vigilance. Gardeners Shirley provides guidance and awareness-building for managers and relevant staff to help them identify potential indicators of exploitation, understand our policies, and know how to respond to concerns. We seek to embed respect for human rights into our day-to-day decision-making and supplier engagement.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by Gardeners Shirley's leadership team. As part of the review, we evaluate the effectiveness of our policies, supplier audits, due diligence processes, and reporting mechanisms. We also consider changes in legislation, industry guidance, and good practice to strengthen our approach.

Following each review, we update our procedures where necessary and communicate any significant changes to relevant stakeholders, including employees and key suppliers. Gardeners Shirley is committed to continuous improvement in tackling modern slavery risks and to maintaining transparent, ethical supply chains that respect the rights and wellbeing of every worker.