Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners New Malden

Gardeners New Malden is committed to conducting every part of its work with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and other forms of exploitation within our operations and supply chains. As a responsible gardening service, we recognise that ethical conduct is not optional; it is a core part of how Gardeners in New Malden operates every day.

We apply a zero-tolerance policy to modern slavery in all forms. This means we will not knowingly engage with any individual, contractor, or supplier involved in exploitative practices. Our commitment applies across all services, from landscape maintenance to plant and material sourcing. We expect our workforce and business partners to uphold the same standards of dignity, transparency, and lawful employment.

Our staff are trained to identify warning signs such as restricted movement, withheld wages, unsafe conditions, or signs of coercion. Where risks are identified, we act immediately and proportionately. Gardeners New Malden also requires that employment practices remain lawful, records are maintained accurately, and any concerns are escalated without delay. This approach helps us protect people and strengthen trust throughout the business.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

We recognise that the greatest risk often lies within the supply chain, particularly where materials, tools, or external labour are involved. For this reason, New Malden gardeners carry out supplier due diligence before entering into new arrangements. We assess each supplier’s labour standards, ethical policies, and compliance history to reduce the likelihood of hidden exploitation.

Supplier audits are an important part of our control framework. These audits may include document checks, site visits, and reviews of labour practices, contracts, and pay arrangements. Where needed, we request corrective action plans and follow up to confirm improvement. If a supplier fails to meet our expectations or refuses to cooperate, we reserve the right to suspend or end the relationship.

We also maintain a clear expectation that sub-contractors and seasonal workers must be treated fairly and paid in line with legal requirements. By using a risk-based approach, gardening services in New Malden can focus attention on higher-risk areas while maintaining practical and effective oversight. This helps ensure that the materials and services supporting our work are sourced responsibly.

Reporting Channels and Worker Protection

Gardeners New Malden encourages anyone with concerns to speak up as soon as possible. Reporting channels are designed to allow workers, suppliers, and third parties to raise issues relating to modern slavery, unethical conduct, or unsafe labour conditions. Concerns may be reported internally to managers or through designated safeguarding routes, and all reports are handled with discretion and seriousness.

We do not tolerate retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. Protection for whistleblowers is essential if exploitation is to be identified and addressed. Confidentiality is maintained wherever possible, and allegations are reviewed promptly to determine appropriate action. If a matter suggests criminal activity, we will support referral to the relevant authorities in line with our legal and ethical obligations.

Our procedures are designed to ensure that reporting is accessible, clear, and safe for all people connected to the business. We believe that openness is one of the strongest defences against modern slavery. By giving staff and partners the confidence to report concerns, Gardeners in New Malden can respond early and reduce harm before it escalates.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure that it remains current, effective, and aligned with legal requirements and operational realities. Each year, we assess emerging risks, supplier performance, internal training needs, and any incidents or concerns raised during the period. The review supports ongoing improvement across the business and helps us strengthen our safeguards.

We record actions taken, evaluate whether controls have worked as intended, and update policies where necessary. Annual review is not simply an administrative exercise; it is part of our commitment to responsible business conduct. Through continuous monitoring, revised supplier standards, and regular staff awareness, New Malden gardeners can continue to reduce vulnerability and improve accountability.

Gardeners New Malden remains firmly committed to ethical practice, lawful employment, and respect for human rights. By combining a zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, clear reporting channels, and annual review, we aim to ensure that our operations and supply chains remain free from modern slavery and exploitation.