Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Stratford
Gardeners Stratford is committed to conducting all aspects of our work with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation in our operations and supply chain. Our zero-tolerance policy applies to every employee, contractor, and supplier associated with Gardeners Stratford. We expect the same ethical standards from everyone who supports our landscaping, maintenance, and outdoor services.
Modern slavery can take many forms, including debt bondage, coercion, withholding of wages, or restricted freedom of movement. We recognise that the risk may arise in labour-intensive sectors and through complex procurement chains. For that reason, Gardeners Stratford takes a proactive approach to identifying and reducing risk. We require all parties to act lawfully, transparently, and responsibly, and we reserve the right to end relationships where concerns are not addressed.
Our commitment begins with recruitment and extends across our entire workforce. We verify the right to work for all relevant personnel and ensure that no one is forced, deceived, or pressured into employment. Managers receive internal guidance on spotting warning signs such as unusual deductions, restricted documents, or unsafe accommodation. By maintaining clear standards, Gardeners Stratford strengthens protection against exploitation and builds a safer working environment for everyone.
Supplier oversight is a central part of this statement. We use supplier audits, risk-based assessments, and document checks to monitor the practices of businesses that provide materials, plants, tools, and outsourced services. New and existing suppliers may be asked to confirm compliance with modern slavery laws, labour standards, and ethical sourcing expectations. If concerns arise, we investigate promptly and may request corrective action, additional evidence, or termination of the supply arrangement.
The middle of our approach is continuous monitoring. We do not rely on a single check at the start of a relationship; instead, Gardeners Stratford reviews supplier performance throughout the year. Where appropriate, we examine wage practices, worker contracts, subcontracting arrangements, and site conditions. These supplier audits help us identify risks early and support improvements before issues escalate. We also encourage suppliers to adopt similar controls within their own networks.
Reporting channels are available so that concerns can be raised without delay. Employees and suppliers are encouraged to report suspected modern slavery, unsafe labour practices, or unethical conduct through internal reporting channels that allow issues to be escalated confidentially and, where possible, without fear of retaliation. Every report is taken seriously, investigated sensitively, and handled with discretion. We believe that open reporting is essential to maintaining trust and to protecting vulnerable workers.
To reinforce accountability, Gardeners Stratford provides training and awareness sessions for relevant staff. These sessions explain how to recognise indicators of exploitation, how to respond appropriately, and how to document concerns. Team members are reminded that zero tolerance means no compromise when it comes to forced labour, child labour, or abusive recruitment practices. Clear expectations help ensure that ethical conduct remains part of day-to-day decision-making.
Our statement is reviewed annually to ensure that it remains effective, current, and aligned with legal requirements and business operations. The annual review considers audit findings, reported concerns, supplier performance, workforce feedback, and any changes in risk exposure. Where needed, we strengthen our controls, update procedures, and revise training. This review cycle ensures that the commitments of Gardeners Stratford are not static but continuously improved.
In summary, this Modern Slavery Statement reflects our determination to operate responsibly and ethically across every area of our business. Through a zero-tolerance policy, regular supplier audits, reliable reporting channels, and an annual review, Gardeners Stratford seeks to prevent modern slavery and promote dignified working conditions. We expect these standards to be upheld by everyone connected to our services, today and in the future.