Gardeners Barnes Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

Gardeners Barnes is committed to conducting all aspects of its business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps we take to identify, prevent, and address the risks of modern slavery within our operations and supply chains. It applies to all employees, contractors, seasonal workers, and suppliers engaged by Gardeners Barnes.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Barnes has a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced or compulsory labour, and all forms of exploitation. We will not knowingly work with any individual, organisation, or partner that engages in, or is complicit in, such practices. This commitment is fundamental to our values and underpins our relationships with employees, clients, and suppliers. Breaches of this policy are treated as serious misconduct and may result in termination of employment or business relationships.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Gardeners Barnes provides gardening, landscaping, and related horticultural services. Our supply chain includes nurseries, tool and equipment providers, uniform and personal protective equipment suppliers, waste removal partners, and occasional subcontractors. We recognise that certain parts of the horticulture and seasonal labour markets can be vulnerable to exploitation, and we work proactively to identify and reduce these risks.

Risk Assessment and Due Diligence

We conduct periodic risk assessments of our operations and supply chains to identify areas where modern slavery risks may be higher. Factors considered include the use of temporary or seasonal labour, reliance on migrant workers, and sourcing from higher-risk sectors or regions. Where elevated risk is identified, we increase the level of scrutiny and due diligence, and may require additional assurances from suppliers and partners.

Supplier Standards and Audits

All key suppliers and subcontractors are expected to adhere to our ethical standards and to comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws. We reserve the right to carry out audits, site visits, or require documented evidence from suppliers to verify compliance with these standards. Where non-compliance or significant concern is identified, we will work with the supplier to implement corrective actions within a defined timeframe. If adequate improvements are not made, we may suspend or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Barnes encourages employees, subcontractors, and suppliers to speak up about any concerns relating to modern slavery, exploitation, or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised to any line manager, a senior manager, or through established internal reporting channels. Reports may be made confidentially where appropriate, and we will take all reasonable steps to protect individuals who raise concerns in good faith from victimisation or retaliation. All reports will be taken seriously, assessed promptly, and investigated where necessary.

Training and Awareness

We provide relevant staff, particularly those involved in recruitment, procurement, and supplier management, with information and guidance on recognising the signs of modern slavery and how to respond to concerns. New starters are made aware of our zero-tolerance policy and their responsibility to help maintain ethical working practices. We keep our training and awareness activities under review to ensure they remain effective and proportionate to the risks we face.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Gardeners Barnes is committed to the continual improvement of its approach to tackling modern slavery. We will review this statement and our related practices at least once a year, or more frequently if there are significant changes to our business or risk profile. The annual review will consider the effectiveness of our risk assessments, supplier audits, training, and reporting mechanisms, and will identify opportunities for further improvement. Any necessary updates to our policies or processes will be implemented and communicated to relevant stakeholders.

Approval of this Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement has been approved by the management of Gardeners Barnes and represents our ongoing commitment to uphold human rights and ethical labour practices across our business and supply chains.