Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Osterley Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Osterley takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery does not occur in any part of our business.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

Gardeners Osterley has a clear zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, and child labour. This applies to our own activities and to all organisations with which we do business. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in termination of contracts or working relationships, as well as reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.

We expect everyone who works for Gardeners Osterley, or on our behalf, to share this commitment and to uphold the highest standards of human rights and labour practices. Our managers are responsible for promoting this policy and ensuring it is understood and followed by their teams.

Our Supply Chains and Supplier Standards

Our supply chains include providers of gardening materials, equipment, uniforms, transport, and other services that support our operations. We work to ensure that all suppliers and contractors share our commitment to combating modern slavery.

We communicate our zero-tolerance policy to suppliers and make it clear that compliance with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws is a fundamental requirement of doing business with Gardeners Osterley. Where appropriate, we incorporate clauses into our contracts that address modern slavery risks and require suppliers to maintain suitable policies and practices.

Supplier Audits and Risk Assessment

To support our commitment, we carry out proportionate risk assessments of our suppliers and service providers. This includes considering the nature of the goods or services supplied, the location of operations, and any sector-specific risks that may increase the likelihood of modern slavery.

Where higher risk is identified, Gardeners Osterley may conduct audits or request evidence of suppliers' own policies, procedures, and training relating to modern slavery. These audits may include reviewing documentation, assessing recruitment practices, and examining how workers are engaged and paid. If we identify concerns, we work with the supplier to address them within a defined timeframe. Failure to make sufficient improvements may lead to reconsideration or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Osterley encourages all employees, workers, contractors, and other stakeholders to report any concerns regarding modern slavery or unethical labour practices. We provide internal channels through which concerns can be raised confidentially to management.

We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. All reports are taken seriously, treated sensitively, and investigated promptly. Where appropriate, we will involve external authorities and specialists to support investigations and remedial actions.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery risks among our team. Training and guidance are provided to relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, recruitment, and contract management. This helps our people recognise signs of exploitation, understand how to respond to concerns, and apply our zero-tolerance policy in daily decision-making.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Gardeners Osterley recognises that combating modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We are committed to continually improving our processes, due diligence, and supplier engagement. Lessons learned from audits, investigations, and industry developments are used to strengthen our approach.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by senior management to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with legal requirements and best practice. The review considers emerging risks, performance against our commitments, and feedback from employees and suppliers. Updates to the statement and our internal procedures are communicated across the business.

This statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Osterley and represents our current position on the prevention of modern slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains.