Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Bloomsbury

Gardeners Bloomsbury is committed to operating with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights across every part of our work. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the principles and actions that guide our approach to preventing slavery, servitude, forced labour, and human trafficking within our business and throughout our supply chain. We recognise that modern slavery can occur in many forms and in many sectors, including horticulture, logistics, procurement, and outsourced services. For that reason, we maintain a zero-tolerance policy and expect the same standard from all those who work with us.

Our commitment applies to all employees, managers, temporary workers, contractors, and suppliers associated with Gardeners Bloomsbury. We take the view that ethical conduct is not optional; it is a core condition of doing business. Any evidence or suspicion of exploitation is treated seriously, investigated promptly, and escalated where necessary. We also work to raise awareness internally so that staff can identify warning signs, understand their responsibilities, and act quickly if concerns arise.

Modern slavery prevention is embedded in our procurement and supplier management processes. Before entering into business relationships, we assess suppliers using risk-based checks that consider geography, labour practices, subcontracting arrangements, and the nature of the goods or services provided. Suppliers are expected to confirm compliance with applicable labour laws and to support our ethical standards. Where appropriate, we require written commitments, contractual clauses, and evidence of controls that reduce the risk of exploitation.

Our supplier audits form an important part of our monitoring framework. These audits may include document reviews, questionnaires, and follow-up checks designed to identify irregularities in recruitment, pay, working hours, accommodation, and freedom of movement. When elevated risk is identified, we may request corrective action plans, enhanced oversight, or independent verification. If a supplier fails to meet our standards and does not take effective remedial action, we reserve the right to suspend or end the relationship.

We also expect our supply partners to flow these expectations down to their own subcontractors and labour providers. This is particularly important where lower-tier arrangements are used, because exploitation can be hidden further along the chain. By promoting traceability and accountability, Gardeners Bloomsbury strengthens its ability to prevent abuse before it occurs. Our preference is always to work collaboratively with suppliers to improve standards, but we will not compromise on human dignity or lawful employment.

Awareness and training are essential to the success of this statement. Relevant staff receive guidance on recognising indicators such as withholding of documents, debt bondage, intimidation, excessive overtime, and restrictions on leaving work. Managers are reminded that strong commercial performance must never come at the expense of ethical practice. A respectful workplace culture helps ensure that concerns are identified early and that individuals feel safe to speak up.

We provide clear reporting channels so that concerns about modern slavery can be raised without delay. Reports may be made through line managers, senior leaders, or other internal reporting routes established for ethical concerns. Individuals who raise issues in good faith will be supported and protected from retaliation. Where a concern involves immediate risk to a person’s safety or welfare, we will act urgently and, where necessary, involve appropriate external authorities.

All reports are handled sensitively and with discretion. We aim to ensure that investigations are fair, timely, and properly documented. When a concern is substantiated, we take proportionate action, which may include supplier remediation, process changes, disciplinary measures, or termination of the relationship. Our approach reflects the belief that a meaningful response is more effective than a purely symbolic policy. We seek to remove risk, support affected individuals, and prevent recurrence.

This statement also reflects our wider governance arrangements. Responsibility for oversight sits with senior management, who review risk exposure, incident trends, audit findings, and progress against improvement actions. Through this process, Gardeners Bloomsbury ensures that anti-slavery measures remain practical and current. We are committed to continual improvement, recognising that supply chain risks can change over time and require a responsive, evidence-led approach.

Our policy is subject to an annual review to confirm that it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with best practice and legal expectations. During the review, we assess whether our controls, training, audits, and reporting mechanisms are working as intended. We also consider whether new risks have emerged in our operations or procurement channels. Any revisions are approved at the appropriate level and communicated to the people responsible for implementation.

Through this statement, Gardeners Bloomsbury reaffirms its determination to prevent modern slavery in every area under its influence. We believe that ethical business practice depends on vigilance, responsibility, and action. By maintaining a robust zero-tolerance position, carrying out supplier audits, providing safe reporting channels, and reviewing our approach annually, we aim to protect workers, strengthen trust, and uphold the standards expected of us.