Gardeners Hoxton Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Gardeners Hoxton is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and with respect for the dignity and rights of every individual. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement explains the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, forced labour, and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, workers, contractors, and suppliers engaged by Gardeners Hoxton.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Hoxton has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards any form of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced or compulsory labour, and child labour. We do not accept such practices in any part of our business or supply chain. We expect the same standard from all parties with whom we work, including direct suppliers, subcontractors, labour agencies, and other business partners.

All individuals who act on behalf of Gardeners Hoxton must comply with this policy and with all applicable labour and human rights laws. Breaches of this policy may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts, or the immediate cessation of business relationships.

Our Supply Chains and Risk Management

Our supply chains include providers of gardening materials, tools, equipment, uniforms, transport, and ancillary services that support our operations. We recognise that certain sectors and regions may present higher risks of modern slavery. We therefore assess our suppliers with regard to geography, industry, and the nature of the goods or services they provide.

Where we identify elevated risk, we apply enhanced due diligence, seek further assurances, and, where appropriate, require corrective actions or reconsider the relationship entirely.

Supplier Standards and Audits

Gardeners Hoxton expects all suppliers to uphold labour standards that are consistent with our values and legal obligations. We require suppliers to respect fundamental human rights, including fair wages, safe working conditions, and freedom from coercion and exploitation.

We conduct supplier reviews and audits that may include site visits, document checks, and worker interviews. These audits are designed to verify compliance with labour standards and to identify any indicators of modern slavery. Where non-compliance or potential exploitation is found, we work with the supplier to implement corrective action plans within clear timeframes. If improvement is not made or serious concerns remain, we may suspend or terminate the relationship.

Training and Awareness

We provide appropriate guidance and, where relevant, training to managers and key staff involved in procurement, recruitment, and site management. This includes raising awareness of the signs of modern slavery, the responsibilities of staff when concerns arise, and the reporting mechanisms available.

We encourage an open culture in which concerns about unethical practices can be raised without fear of retaliation. Employees are reminded that they must never ignore or turn a blind eye to potential signs of modern slavery.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Hoxton is committed to ensuring that all workers, including agency staff and those in our supply chains, have clear channels to raise concerns about slavery, trafficking, or exploitation. Concerns can be reported to line managers, senior management, or via established internal reporting routes. Reports can be made confidentially and will be treated seriously and sensitively.

We will investigate all reports promptly and thoroughly, taking appropriate action in response to any findings. Retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith is strictly prohibited and will be treated as a disciplinary matter.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process requiring vigilance and continual improvement. Gardeners Hoxton will review this Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement at least once every year, or sooner if there are significant changes to our operations, risk profile, or legal requirements.

The annual review will consider the effectiveness of our policies, supplier audits, training, and reporting mechanisms. Where necessary, we will strengthen our procedures, expand our due diligence activities, and update our guidance to employees and suppliers.

This statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Hoxton, who are responsible for overseeing its implementation and ensuring that our zero-tolerance stance is reflected in everyday practice across our business and supply chains.