Gardeners Burroughs Modern Slavery Commitment

Gardeners Burroughs is firmly committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our business and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to act ethically, transparently, and with integrity in all our relationships, and to implement effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery does not take place anywhere in or connected to our organisation.

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to identify, prevent, and address the risks of forced labour, servitude, human trafficking, and all forms of exploitation in our operations and wider supply chain.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We operate a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. This applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, consultants, and any third parties working on our behalf. Any form of coercion, bonded or forced labour, child labour that does not meet legal and ethical standards, or human trafficking is strictly prohibited.

All individuals engaged by Gardeners Burroughs must be free to leave their employment after reasonable notice and must not be required to surrender identity papers or pay recruitment fees as a condition of work. We are committed to fair recruitment practices, lawful and transparent payment of wages, and the provision of safe and respectful working conditions.

Responsible Supply Chain Management and Supplier Audits

We understand that the greatest modern slavery risks often arise within complex supply chains. Gardeners Burroughs strives to work only with suppliers and business partners who share our ethical standards. As part of our due diligence processes, we assess the modern slavery risks associated with our suppliers based on sector, geography, and the nature of goods and services provided.

We expect all suppliers to uphold equivalent standards to our own. Where appropriate, we carry out supplier audits and assessments to verify compliance with our modern slavery expectations. These audits may include site visits, document reviews, and discussions with management and, where possible, workers. If we identify any risk indicators or non-compliance, we will seek corrective action plans within clear timeframes. Failure to adequately address identified issues, or evidence of modern slavery, may result in the suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Employee Awareness, Training, and Responsibilities

Employees whose roles involve procurement, supplier management, or oversight of contractors receive guidance on recognising signs of modern slavery and human trafficking. Managers are expected to promote an open culture in which concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation and to escalate any suspected issues promptly in line with internal procedures.

All staff are required to comply with our policies on ethical conduct, human rights, and workplace standards. Any breach of these policies is treated seriously and may lead to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or engagement.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We are committed to providing safe and accessible channels for raising concerns about modern slavery and related abuses. Employees, contractors, and suppliers are encouraged to report any suspicion or evidence of forced labour, human trafficking, or exploitative practices at the earliest opportunity.

Concerns can be raised through internal reporting routes, including line management or designated senior contacts, in accordance with our whistleblowing and grievance procedures. Reports can be made confidentially, and we will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. All reports are taken seriously, reviewed promptly, and investigated where appropriate, with remedial actions taken as necessary.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for oversight of this Modern Slavery Statement and its implementation rests with the senior leadership of Gardeners Burroughs. We monitor the effectiveness of our approach through ongoing review of supplier performance, incident reports, audit findings, and feedback from workers and stakeholders.

This Statement is reviewed at least annually to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with emerging best practice and legal requirements. As part of this review, we consider any changes in our operations, supply chains, and risk profile, as well as lessons learned from audits, investigations, and industry developments. Where necessary, we update our policies, procedures, and training to strengthen our defences against modern slavery.

By publishing this Modern Slavery Statement, Gardeners Burroughs reaffirms its commitment to upholding human dignity, promoting fair and safe working conditions, and working collaboratively with our suppliers, partners, and employees to eliminate modern slavery from our business and supply chains.