Gardeners Haringey Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Haringey to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our own operations and throughout our supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and to protect the rights and wellbeing of everyone who contributes to our services.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
Gardeners Haringey has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, debt bondage, servitude, and child labour. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business dealings, ensuring that modern slavery has no place in our organisation or in the goods and services we procure.
All staff, including permanent, temporary and agency workers, are expected to support this commitment. We also expect contractors, suppliers and other business partners to uphold the same standards and to ensure that modern slavery is not present in their own operations or supply chains.
Policies and Governance
Our zero-tolerance position on modern slavery is reinforced through internal policies covering ethical conduct, recruitment and selection, procurement and whistleblowing. These policies are communicated to staff through induction, team briefings and ongoing management guidance, helping to create a culture where unfair treatment, exploitation and abuse are never accepted.
Senior management has overall responsibility for ensuring that this statement is implemented and regularly reviewed. Line managers are responsible for promoting awareness of modern slavery risks within their teams and for escalating any concerns in a timely and appropriate manner.
Risk Assessment and Due Diligence
We periodically assess the risk of modern slavery within our own operations and within the supply chains that support our services. Particular attention is given to higher risk areas such as manual labour, seasonal work, subcontracted services and the sourcing of equipment, materials and uniforms.
Due diligence may include requesting information on labour practices, reviewing relevant policies and certifications, and considering a supplier's geographic location, sector and known risk factors. Where higher risks are identified, we may apply enhanced checks, seek additional assurances or decide not to proceed with or to discontinue a business relationship.
Supplier Standards and Audits
Gardeners Haringey expects all suppliers, contractors and subcontractors to comply with applicable labour laws and to uphold our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery. This expectation is communicated through our procurement processes and forms part of our ongoing supplier relationships.
We reserve the right to conduct supplier audits or request evidence demonstrating compliance with modern slavery and human rights standards. These audits may include site visits, management meetings and reviews of employment records and worker accommodation where relevant. Where non-compliance or serious concerns are identified, we will work with the supplier to develop corrective action plans. If necessary, contracts may be suspended or terminated.
Training and Awareness
We are committed to improving awareness of modern slavery across Gardeners Haringey. Relevant staff are provided with guidance to help them recognise the signs of exploitation, understand how risks can arise in everyday operations and know how to respond if they suspect that someone is at risk.
Ongoing communication reinforces the message that modern slavery is not tolerated and that anyone raising concerns will be treated seriously and sensitively. We encourage staff to remain vigilant and to challenge any practice that appears unfair, unsafe or exploitative.
Reporting Concerns and Protection
Gardeners Haringey encourages staff, suppliers and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions relating to modern slavery. Concerns can be raised through established internal reporting channels, including line management, senior management or designated reporting contacts.
Reports can be made in confidence and will be investigated promptly and fairly. Gardeners Haringey does not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. Where appropriate, we will cooperate with relevant authorities and support any remedial or protective measures required to safeguard affected individuals.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility that requires continuous improvement. Gardeners Haringey is committed to reviewing and strengthening our policies, procedures and practices to better identify and address the risks of modern slavery in our operations and supply chains.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by senior management to ensure it remains accurate, effective and aligned with current legislation, guidance and best practice. As part of this review, we consider emerging risks, feedback from staff and suppliers, the outcomes of any audits or investigations and opportunities to enhance training and awareness.
By maintaining a clear zero-tolerance stance, conducting appropriate supplier checks and audits, promoting transparent reporting channels and reviewing our approach every year, Gardeners Haringey aims to play an active role in preventing modern slavery and protecting the rights and dignity of workers connected to our services.
