Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Aldwych

Gardeners Aldwych is committed to operating with integrity, fairness, and respect for human dignity across every part of our business. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and other forms of exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that garden and grounds maintenance activities may involve multiple labour arrangements, seasonal workers, subcontractors, and purchased materials, which can increase risk if not carefully managed. Our approach is built on zero tolerance, active oversight, and continuous improvement.

We expect every employee, contractor, and supplier associated with Gardeners Aldwych to uphold the highest ethical standards. No person working for us or on our behalf may be subjected to coercion, debt bondage, withheld wages, identity document retention, or any form of abuse. This commitment applies equally to all aspects of our service delivery, from procurement and labour practices to site management and administration. The principle is simple: exploitation has no place in our business.

Our governance framework supports this position through clear responsibilities and documented controls. Senior management reviews modern slavery risks as part of broader compliance oversight, while operational managers are expected to identify warning signs in day-to-day activities. We use proportionate due diligence when engaging suppliers, including checks on trading history, labour practices, subcontracting arrangements, and the origin of goods and services. Where appropriate, we require suppliers to confirm their own anti-slavery measures and to cooperate fully with any review.

Supplier audits are a key part of our prevention strategy. These audits may be announced or unannounced, depending on the level of risk and the nature of the relationship. During an audit, we assess employment records, wage practices, working hours, right-to-work evidence, and subcontractor controls. We also review whether workers are free to leave employment, whether deductions are lawful, and whether any signs of vulnerability are being addressed responsibly. Any concerns identified are investigated promptly, and corrective action is required where needed.

Our supplier audit process is designed not only to detect non-compliance but also to encourage improvement. If a partner falls short of our expectations, we may suspend further business, require remedial action, or terminate the relationship where risks cannot be resolved. In higher-risk areas, we may request additional evidence such as policies, training records, or site-level labour checks. This balanced approach helps us protect workers while strengthening the resilience of the Gardeners Aldwych supply chain.

Reporting channels are essential to the success of this statement. We encourage anyone connected with our work to report concerns, suspicions, or incidents relating to modern slavery, whether they involve our own operations or a supplier. Reports can be made through internal management routes, designated compliance contacts, or protected whistleblowing mechanisms. We make clear that retaliation is not tolerated against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. Every report is treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated without delay.

Risk Awareness and Worker Protection

We recognise that some roles and supply routes may carry elevated risk, particularly where temporary labour, agency workers, or outsourced services are involved. As a result, Gardeners Aldwych promotes awareness training so that managers can recognise indicators such as inconsistent pay, restricted movement, intimidation, excessive working hours, or unexplained control by a third party. Training is reinforced through internal communication and practical supervision, ensuring that concern is identified early and escalated appropriately.

Continuous Improvement

We are committed to reviewing and improving our controls as legal standards, business needs, and risk factors evolve. This statement is supported by periodic assessment of procurement practices, contract terms, and operational procedures. We also encourage responsible recordkeeping, transparent supplier relationships, and consistent escalation when issues arise. These measures help ensure that our zero-tolerance policy remains more than a principle; it is a working standard applied across the business.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually to reflect our progress, identify emerging risks, and strengthen our response. The annual review considers audit outcomes, reported concerns, supplier performance, and any lessons learned from compliance activity. Gardeners Aldwych remains steadfast in its commitment to ethical conduct, lawful employment, and the protection of vulnerable people. We believe that responsible business practice must include active action against exploitation in every form.