Modern Slavery Statement — Gardeners Catford Commitment
Gardeners Catford is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all its operations and supply chains. This Modern Slavery Statement (also referred to as the Gardeners Catford statement) sets out our policies, due diligence and actions taken to ensure there is a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of forced labour, servitude, or exploitation.
Our zero-tolerance policy applies to all employees, contractors and suppliers. We require that everyone working for or with Gardeners of Catford adheres to ethical labour standards, including freedom of movement, fair wages, and lawful working conditions. We make this clear in contracts and purchase terms and actively communicate that non-compliance will lead to contract termination and remedial action.
To support these commitments we carry out targeted supplier audits and risk assessments across our supply chain. The supplier audit programme for Gardeners Catford Ltd focuses on:
- identifying high-risk suppliers and sectors;
- verifying recruitment and wage practices;
- ensuring working hours, health and safety, and housing standards meet legal expectations.
Due Diligence and Contractual Measures
We operate a proportionate due diligence process that includes supplier screening, contractual clauses, and periodic reassessment. Gardeners Catford conducts pre-qualification checks and requires suppliers to confirm that they do not use forced labour. Contracts include explicit anti-slavery clauses and the right for Gardeners of Catford to undertake unannounced inspections and audits.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We provide multiple reporting channels so staff and third parties can raise concerns safely and confidentially. Reporting channels include secure internal reporting to managers and designated compliance officers, anonymous reporting mechanisms and escalation procedures to our governance team. All reports are taken seriously and investigated promptly.To protect those who report concerns, Gardeners Catford operates a non-retaliation policy. Reports are handled in confidence, investigations are documented, and remedial steps are taken where evidence of modern slavery or exploitation is found. We also record actions taken and outcomes to improve transparency and accountability.
Our supplier audit framework includes regular reviews, corrective action plans and follow-ups. Audits for Gardeners Catford suppliers are risk-based: higher-risk categories such as seasonal labour, subcontracted services and accommodation-provided roles receive priority. Where issues are identified, we require corrective action within agreed timescales, monitor progress and, in persistent cases, suspend or terminate relationships.
We invest in training and awareness-raising for our teams and procurement partners. Staff at all levels receive training on recognising signs of modern slavery, how to use reporting channels and the responsibilities under the Gardeners Catford human rights policy. Training is refreshed regularly and adapted to emerging risks and legislative changes.
Annual Review and Continuous Improvement: Gardeners Catford will review this statement and our processes at least once a year. The annual review evaluates the effectiveness of our policies, supplier audits, reporting channels and remediation efforts. We commit to continuous improvement, incorporating lessons learned from investigations, audit findings and stakeholder engagement to strengthen our approach.
Governance and Responsibility: The Board and senior management of Gardeners Catford oversee modern slavery risk management and approve the strategy and resources required. Operational responsibility sits with our compliance lead who coordinates audits, training and investigations. We will continue to work collaboratively with suppliers, contractors and industry partners to eliminate modern slavery from our operations and supply chains.
This statement reflects the ongoing commitment of Gardeners Catford to uphold human rights and combat modern slavery through clear policy, supplier audits, secure reporting channels and a rigorous annual review process.
