Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Osterley
Gardeners Osterley is committed to conducting business with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, child labour, and any form of exploitation within our operations and supply chain. We recognise that the landscaping and gardening sector can involve varied labour arrangements, seasonal demand, and multiple suppliers, so our approach is built on vigilance, accountability, and zero tolerance for abuse.
Our position is clear: zero tolerance policy means we do not accept modern slavery in any part of our business. Every team member, subcontractor, and supplier is expected to act lawfully and ethically. We embed this expectation in our hiring practices, procurement standards, and contractual requirements. For Gardener Osterley, protecting workers is not optional; it is a core business responsibility that informs how we select partners, review labour practices, and manage risk.
To support this commitment, we require reasonable checks on supplier conduct and workplace conditions. Supplier audits are used where appropriate to assess compliance with labour standards, wage practices, working hours, and identity verification processes. These reviews may include document checks, site visits, and discussions with management about worker treatment and recruitment methods. Where concerns are identified, we expect immediate corrective action and may suspend or end the relationship if issues are not resolved.
Our due diligence extends beyond direct suppliers. We expect suppliers to apply similar standards throughout their own supply chains and to keep records that demonstrate responsible recruitment and fair employment. Gardeners Osterley aims to work only with organisations that share our values, and we consider modern slavery risks when onboarding new suppliers or renewing existing arrangements. Training and internal awareness support our staff in recognising warning signs such as withheld documents, unusual payments, restricted movement, or inconsistent work arrangements.
We also maintain clear reporting channels so that concerns can be raised quickly and without fear of retaliation. Employees, workers, and supply chain partners are encouraged to report any suspicion of exploitation, unsafe recruitment, coercion, or poor labour conditions through established internal procedures. Reports are handled confidentially and investigated promptly. If a credible concern is identified, we escalate it to appropriate management and take action proportionate to the risk and severity of the issue.
In addition to prevention and reporting, we review how our controls perform in practice. This includes monitoring procurement decisions, checking whether supplier requirements are being followed, and learning from any incidents or near misses. Our aim is to identify weak points early and strengthen safeguards before harm occurs. For Gardeners Osterley, the fight against modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility that requires continuous attention, not a one-time declaration.
We understand that modern slavery can take many forms, and it may be hidden behind legitimate-looking business activity. That is why our approach combines policy, diligence, and oversight. Staff involved in recruitment, contracting, and supplier management are expected to apply a risk-based mindset and to escalate concerns immediately. We also encourage ethical leadership across the business so that respect for human dignity remains central to daily operations.
This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant, effective, and aligned with legal expectations and business realities. The annual review considers changes in supply chains, lessons from audits, updates to risk assessments, and any new guidance that may affect our controls. We may revise policies, strengthen training, or introduce additional checks where needed. Annual review helps us stay accountable and demonstrates our commitment to continual improvement.
Gardeners Osterley will continue to uphold a responsible working culture, promote transparency, and challenge any practice that could enable exploitation. By combining a zero-tolerance policy, robust supplier audits, accessible reporting channels, and a thorough annual review, we aim to protect workers and support ethical trade across every part of our operations. This statement reflects our current commitments and our determination to maintain high standards in the years ahead.