Gardener Plumstead Modern Slavery Statement

Gardener Plumstead publishes this Modern Slavery Statement to confirm our commitment to preventing forced labour, exploitation and human trafficking across our operations and supply chains. We adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of modern slavery or servitude. This anti-slavery declaration outlines the steps we take to identify, prevent and remediate risks associated with slavery and human trafficking in our business and procurement activities.

Our modern slavery policy applies to all employees, contractors and suppliers. It sets clear expectations: any instance of coercion, withholding of wages, deceptive recruitment, bonded labour or exploitation will not be tolerated. The policy is communicated through induction training and periodic refresher sessions to ensure awareness of the signs of exploitation and the obligations of those working with or for Gardener Plumstead.

As part of this modern slavery and human trafficking statement we require suppliers to adhere to our code of conduct. Supplier on-boarding includes documented commitments to ethical labour practices, verification of employment terms and evidence of safe working conditions. We prioritise suppliers who demonstrate transparent payroll, lawful recruitment practices and respect for worker rights.

To enforce our anti-slavery statement we conduct regular supplier audits and risk assessments. These reviews combine desktop checks, questionnaires and, where necessary, on-site inspections. Supplier audits evaluate recruitment processes, accommodation, hours of work, payment of wages and protections for vulnerable workers. Findings are escalated and remediation plans are agreed with suppliers that require improvement.

Supplier Audits and Continuous Monitoring

Our structured audit program includes:

• risk-based supplier screening and mapping;
• contract clauses requiring compliance with anti-slavery standards;
• periodic audit cycles and corrective action tracking;
• training for procurement teams to spot indicators of exploitation.

We recognise that supply chain transparency is an ongoing endeavour. Where audits reveal non-compliance, we take decisive remedial action which may include suspension of business, collaborative remediation plans or termination of contracts for persistent breaches. Our objective is to protect affected individuals and ensure sustainable, ethical supply chains.

We maintain multiple reporting channels to ensure workers, suppliers and third parties can raise concerns confidentially. Reports can be made through internal whistleblowing routes, anonymous reporting mechanisms and through designated compliance leads. All reports are investigated promptly and proportionately, with protections in place for whistleblowers. Reporting channels are publicised internally to foster a culture of openness and accountability.

Zero-Tolerance and Remediation

Our zero-tolerance policy means that proven cases of modern slavery result in immediate action. We prioritise the safety and recovery of affected people and work with specialist providers where required. Remediation may include restitution, support services, referral to authorities and systemic changes to prevent recurrence. We apply lessons learned to strengthen controls and update contractual requirements.

Gardener Plumstead commits to an annual review of our modern slavery and human trafficking statement and related policies. Each year we evaluate the effectiveness of due diligence, audit outcomes, training uptake and reporting statistics. The annual review drives improvements in supplier engagement, procurement standards and risk mitigation. We will continue to adapt our approach to emerging risks and align with best practice in responsible sourcing.