Modern Slavery Statement — Gardeners Morden
Gardeners Morden publishes this Modern Slavery Statement to confirm our clear commitment to preventing all forms of exploitation in our operations and supply chains. We operate a zero-tolerance policy toward slavery, servitude, forced labour and human trafficking. This modern slavery policy applies to every worker engaged directly by Gardeners Morden, our contractors and our suppliers. We believe that a practical, transparent approach is the most effective way to reduce risk and protect individuals.Our commitment and scope
Gardeners Morden’s scope for this modern slavery and human trafficking statement covers our core gardening and landscaping services, procurement of plants and materials, subcontracted labour and logistics partners. We proactively identify areas of greatest risk and require compliance with our Supplier Code of Conduct. We will not tolerate exploitative practices and will take immediate action when issues are identified.
Supplier audits and due diligence
We carry out regular supplier audits and risk assessments to verify compliance. Our supplier audits include on-site inspections, document review and worker interviews where appropriate. Key audit elements include:- Verification of employment terms and wage records;
- Evidence of free consent to work and absence of retention of identity documents;
- Health and safety compliance and grievance mechanisms for workers.
Risk-based approach and contractual safeguards
We use a risk-based approach to prioritise audits and supplier engagement. Contracts include anti-slavery clauses, rights to audit and remediation requirements. Where we identify non-compliance we require corrective action plans and follow-up verification. Repeated or serious breaches may lead to termination of supply relationships and legal action.
Reporting channels and whistleblowing
Gardeners Morden maintains clear, confidential reporting channels to enable staff, contractors and third parties to report concerns about modern slavery or exploitation. Reports can be made through internal whistleblowing procedures and direct reports to designated compliance officers. We emphasise that reports are handled with confidentiality and with protections against retaliation. Our reporting channels include:- Anonymous reporting mechanisms;
- Designated internal compliance contacts;
- Supervisor and HR escalation routes.
All reports are assessed quickly, investigated impartially and, where necessary, incidents are escalated to relevant authorities. We document investigations and outcomes to ensure continuous improvement and accountability.
Training, monitoring and continuous improvement
We provide regular training for employees and managers on identifying signs of modern slavery and on our reporting procedures. Suppliers and subcontractors receive guidance on expectations and access to training materials. Monitoring includes periodic performance reviews, contractual compliance checks and tracking of corrective actions to closure.
Governance and annual review
Gardeners Morden’s leadership team is responsible for implementing this modern slavery policy. We conduct an annual review of our modern slavery statement, supplier audit programme and training effectiveness. The review includes an analysis of incidents reported, audit findings, remediation outcomes and updates to risk assessments. Results of the review inform improvements to our controls, supplier selection and procurement practices.
