Gardener Dulwich Modern Slavery Statement

Gardener Dulwich is committed to preventing slavery and human trafficking in all forms. This modern slavery statement outlines our approach, rooted in a zero-tolerance stance on exploitation across our operations and supply chains. We recognise that as a responsible local employer and contractor we must be vigilant, proactive and transparent in addressing risks associated with forced labour, bonded labour, and human trafficking.

We publish this anti-slavery statement to set expectations internally and with partners. Our modern slavery policy is embedded in staff training, procurement procedures and contract terms. All employees receive instruction on recognising signs of exploitation and on their duty to escalate concerns through the defined reporting channels. We promote a culture where raising concerns is supported and where retaliation is not tolerated.

Our supplier due diligence is central to the modern slavery and human trafficking statement we uphold. We require suppliers to meet specific standards and to confirm compliance as part of onboarding. Where risk indicators exist, we undertake targeted supplier audits and site visits. These checks combine document review, worker interviews and risk-based metrics to verify that practices align with our expectations and legal obligations.

Zero Tolerance Policy and Compliance Measures

Zero tolerance means any credible allegation of slavery or trafficking is investigated promptly. We will suspend or terminate relationships with suppliers who fail to remedy non-compliance. Our contractual clauses include provisions that enable remediation and, where necessary, contract termination. We also reserve the right to require corrective action plans and independent verification.

We maintain a programme of supplier audits and continuous monitoring. Audit outcomes inform risk ratings and influence procurement decisions. For higher-risk categories we increase the frequency of assessments and require corrective milestones. Our procurement team collaborates with operational managers to prioritise audits according to geography, sector and labour intensity.

To ensure consistency we use a standard audit framework and trained auditors. Audit findings drive supplier development plans and capacity-building efforts. Where vulnerabilities are identified we work with suppliers to implement improvement measures, including enhanced payroll transparency, time-recording and worker grievance mechanisms.

Reporting Channels and Worker Protection

We provide multiple reporting channels so concerns can be raised safely and confidentially. These channels include an anonymous reporting mechanism, a well-publicised internal escalation process and clear guidance for managers handling disclosures. All reports are treated seriously, investigated without undue delay and recorded in a secure case management system.

We protect whistleblowers and those who disclose potential abuses. Our procedures ensure support for affected individuals, including access to appropriate assistance and, where required, referral to specialist services. We train managers on sensitive handling of reports and on preserving confidentiality to the greatest extent possible.

Accountability for preventing modern slavery sits with senior leadership and spans purchasing, HR and operations. We publish our modern slavery statement and anti-slavery policy internally and ensure that key performance indicators include compliance with these standards. Our commitments cover recruitment practices, subcontractor management and seasonal labour arrangements, reducing the risk of exploitative labour practices.

We conduct an annual review of our modern slavery policy and related controls to ensure they remain effective and proportionate to current risk. This review evaluates incident data, audit results, changes in legislation, and stakeholder input. Findings lead to updated procedures, refreshed training and reallocation of resources where gaps are identified.

Key elements of our continuous improvement approach include:

• Regular supplier audits and risk-based reassessments;
• Mandatory staff training on modern slavery awareness;
• Contractual protections and remediation requirements for suppliers;
• Safe, confidential reporting channels and whistleblower protections;
• Annual policy review and public statement of progress.

Gardener Dulwich is clear that preventing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. Our anti-slavery statement reflects a commitment to continuous due diligence, remedial action where necessary, and collaboration with partners to uphold human rights. We will continue to strengthen supplier oversight, increase transparency and ensure our practices are aligned with best-practice standards.

Through sustained attention to supplier audits, robust reporting channels and a firm zero-tolerance policy, we aim to minimise risk and respond decisively to any confirmed instances of exploitation. Our annual reviews ensure lessons learned are translated into practical improvements and measurable outcomes.

This Modern Slavery Statement for Gardener Dulwich is reviewed at least once a year and updated to reflect new information, evolving risks, and the results of enforcement and audit activity. We remain committed to preventing slavery in all its forms and to fostering safe, fair and transparent working practices across our operations and supply chains.