Modern Slavery Statement — Gardeners Southfields

Gardeners Southfields and the wider team of Southfields gardeners are resolutely committed to preventing modern slavery, human trafficking and forced labour in all parts of our operations and supply chain. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out our approach, actions and ongoing commitments.

Our purpose is to deliver landscaping and horticultural services with integrity. We recognise that exploitation can occur in many forms and we operate a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of modern slavery. All staff, contractors and suppliers are expected to adhere to this principle as a condition of engagement with Gardeners of Southfields.

We maintain clear contractual requirements, worker checks and oversight processes. Gardeners - Southfields deploys fair recruitment practices, payroll verification and identity checks where applicable. Our zero-tolerance stance means that any credible allegation of forced labour, debt bondage or human trafficking will prompt immediate action, remediation and, if necessary, termination of relationships with offending parties.

Supply Chain Controls and Supplier Audits

We recognise that risk can be elevated deeper in supply chains. To manage this we operate a risk-based supplier audit programme. Key audit measures include:

• Due diligence screening prior to engagement;
• Regular on-site and remote audits focusing on working conditions, hours and labour practices;
• Verification of right-to-work documentation and fair wage practices.

Audit outcomes are recorded and acted upon. Suppliers found to be non-compliant are given time-bound corrective action plans and are re-audited. Persistent or severe breaches result in contract termination and escalation to appropriate authorities.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We provide multiple, secure reporting channels for staff, subcontractors and third parties to raise concerns about modern slavery. Reports can be made anonymously and will be treated seriously. Our reporting framework includes:

• Internal reporting lines to designated compliance leads;
• Protected whistleblower processes to preserve confidentiality;
• Escalation to senior management and, where appropriate, external authorities.

Gardeners Southfields ensures reports are investigated promptly, with outcomes communicated to relevant stakeholders while protecting the safety of reporters. We emphasise non-retaliation and support for affected workers.

Training and awareness form a core part of our preventative strategy. All employees and on-site supervisors complete regular training on recognising signs of exploitation and following reporting procedures. Contractors and suppliers are also required to complete targeted awareness modules before engagement. Supplier audits are complemented by training to ensure corrective measures are sustainable.

Remediation and continual improvement are built into our approach. When an incident is confirmed, we pursue fair remediation for victims, which may include helping to secure safe work alternatives, financial recompense and legal support where required. We also review and strengthen controls to prevent recurrence.

Governance and accountability lie with our senior leadership and the board-level oversight committee. Responsibilities include monitoring compliance, reviewing audit findings and ensuring resources for implementation. Gardeners Southfields incorporates modern slavery risk into broader enterprise risk management and procurement policies.

Each year we publish a full statement of progress and findings as part of our transparency commitments. The annual review evaluates the effectiveness of our policies, the results of supplier audits, training completion rates, and any remediation carried out. This process drives continuous improvement in how we prevent and respond to modern slavery across the business and supply network.

We recognise that eliminating modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. Gardeners of Southfields will continue to strengthen due diligence, increase the scope of supplier audits and improve reporting accessibility. Our commitment is enduring: to protect workers, uphold human rights and ensure our gardens and services are delivered ethically.

By combining a zero-tolerance policy, robust supplier audits, clear reporting channels and a rigorous annual review, Southfields Gardeners aims to be a responsible employer and purchaser, leading by example in the horticulture sector.