Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Bowes Park

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions taken by Gardeners Bowes Park to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold and promote human rights, and we are committed to ensuring that all work associated with our gardening and related services is carried out in conditions that are safe, fair, and respectful.

Modern slavery includes slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour, and human trafficking. Gardeners Bowes Park rejects all forms of modern slavery and is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business dealings.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Bowes Park operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, contractor, or organisation involved in such practices. Any confirmed instance of modern slavery within our operations or supply chain will result in immediate and decisive action, which may include terminating contracts, reporting concerns to relevant authorities, and supporting affected individuals where possible.

All employees, workers, and contractors are expected to uphold this commitment. Breaches of this policy by employees may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Breaches by suppliers or subcontractors may lead to the suspension or permanent termination of our business relationship.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We recognise that our responsibility extends beyond our direct workforce to the wider supply chain that supports our services, including providers of plants, tools, equipment, uniforms, transport, and ancillary services. We seek to work only with suppliers and subcontractors who share our commitment to ethical labour practices.

Gardeners Bowes Park is implementing supplier due diligence procedures designed to identify and minimise the risk of modern slavery. This includes requiring suppliers to confirm that they comply with relevant labour and human rights legislation and to uphold standards equivalent to our own. Where appropriate, we may request documentation or declarations outlining their own modern slavery policies and processes.

We reserve the right to carry out audits or assessments of selected suppliers based on risk, taking into account factors such as the nature of the goods or services provided, geographical location, and the use of temporary or migrant labour. Where concerns are identified, we will work with the supplier to address them through corrective action plans or, if necessary, by ending the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Bowes Park encourages an open culture in which concerns about unethical conduct, including modern slavery or human trafficking, can be raised without fear of retaliation. All employees, agency workers, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to speak up if they suspect that modern slavery may be occurring in any part of our business or supply chain.

Concerns can be raised verbally or in writing to management or a designated senior representative within Gardeners Bowes Park. Reports will be treated seriously and handled sensitively, with information shared only on a need-to-know basis. We will investigate all credible concerns and, where appropriate, take action which may include referring matters to law enforcement or relevant authorities.

We do not tolerate any form of victimisation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith. Anyone who believes they have been subject to retaliation for reporting a concern is encouraged to come forward so that the matter can be addressed promptly.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities

Responsibility for overseeing compliance with this statement rests with the leadership of Gardeners Bowes Park, supported by managers who are responsible for day-to-day implementation. Managers are expected to be familiar with the risks of modern slavery relevant to their areas of responsibility and to apply our policies consistently.

We will provide appropriate training and guidance to employees whose roles place them in a position to influence working conditions or manage supplier relationships. This may include information on identifying signs of exploitation, understanding reporting mechanisms, and engaging with suppliers on ethical practices. Awareness of modern slavery risks and our zero-tolerance stance will be reinforced through internal communications and onboarding processes.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Bowes Park is committed to continuous improvement in identifying and addressing the risks of modern slavery and human trafficking. This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed at least once every year, or more frequently if there are significant changes to our business operations, supply chains, or legal obligations.

The annual review will assess the effectiveness of our policies, supplier checks, training, and reporting mechanisms. Where necessary, we will update our procedures, strengthen controls, and set new objectives to further reduce the risk of modern slavery. We will also take into account feedback from stakeholders and any lessons learned from incidents, investigations, or audits.

This statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Bowes Park and reflects our ongoing commitment to promoting fair, safe, and ethical working practices across our business and supply chains.