Gardeners Mottingham Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Mottingham publishes this Modern Slavery Statement to confirm our firm commitment to preventing forced labour, human trafficking and all forms of exploitation across our operations and supply network. This modern slavery declaration explains the practical steps we take to identify and mitigate risks, protect workers, and ensure ethical employment practices in the landscaping and grounds maintenance services we provide.

Our policy applies across our business and to all contractors and suppliers. We operate with a zero-tolerance policy on any use of forced labour, bonded labour, or involuntary servitude. The scope of this anti-slavery statement covers recruitment, pay, working hours, freedom of movement and the absence of coercion or threats in employment relationships.

We back this stance with clear contractual requirements and training. Zero tolerance is embedded in procurement terms, supplier codes of conduct and staff onboarding. We require suppliers to demonstrate compliance through documentation and by allowing access for verification, and we deliver regular awareness training to managers and teams to recognise indicators of exploitation.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audit Programme

We apply proportional due diligence when selecting and renewing suppliers. Our processes include risk-based screening, verification of payroll and employment records, and scrutiny of labour intermediaries. Where higher risks are identified, we escalate checks and increase the frequency of monitoring to better protect vulnerable workers.

As part of our supplier audits we assess governance, recruitment practices and the treatment of migrant and temporary staff. Audits are scheduled based on risk profiling and can be carried out on-site or remotely. Audit findings are recorded and form the basis for corrective actions and ongoing monitoring obligations.

To make this practical we maintain a structured approach:

• Initial risk assessment and enhanced due diligence for high-risk suppliers;
• On-site inspections and worker interviews where appropriate;
• Verification of wage records, working hours and identity documents;
• Corrective action plans with clear timelines and follow-up audits;
• Continuous record-keeping and contractual remedies for non-compliance.

Reporting Channels, Remedy and Annual Review

We provide secure reporting channels and ensure confidentiality for anyone raising concerns. Employees are encouraged to speak to managers, trade representatives or use our anonymous reporting mechanism without fear of retaliation. We treat all reports seriously and ensure victim-centred responses where exploitation is suspected.

All allegations are investigated promptly and proportionately, with decisions on suspension or termination of supplier relationships taken when necessary. We prioritise remediation for affected individuals, which can include assisting with alternative employment, access to medical care or reimbursement for unlawful deductions. We record outcomes and apply lessons learned to strengthen controls.

This statement and our anti-slavery measures are reviewed at least annually. Each year the board receives a report on audit findings, remediation actions and the efficacy of our controls. Strong governance ensures ongoing improvement of our modern slavery and human trafficking policies. Gardeners Mottingham remains committed to preventing exploitation and to continuous improvement of our modern slavery practices.