Gardeners Chalk Farm Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions taken by Gardeners Chalk Farm to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious global issue that can affect any sector, including horticulture, retail, and services connected to our business activities. This statement covers our commitment, the steps we take to identify and manage risk, and the measures we use to monitor and improve our performance.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Chalk Farm has a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced or compulsory labour, and child labour. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships. This commitment extends to all individuals working within our organisation, regardless of their role or location, and to all those who provide goods and services to us.

We expect the same high standards from our suppliers, contractors, temporary labour providers, and any other business partners. We communicate our zero-tolerance stance as part of our onboarding and contracting processes and make it clear that failure to comply with our standards may result in the termination of relationships and contracts.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chain includes growers, distributors, product manufacturers, facilities providers, and professional services. We recognise that certain parts of our supply chain, particularly those involving manual labour and seasonal work, may carry a higher risk of modern slavery. To address this, we have implemented clear supplier standards that prohibit the use of forced, bonded, or trafficked labour and require compliance with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights legislation.

We undertake supplier risk assessments to identify higher-risk categories based on geography, sector, and type of work. For higher-risk suppliers, we conduct audits which may include site visits, document checks, worker interviews, and verification of recruitment practices. These audits assess working conditions, wages, working hours, freedom of movement, and the presence of any recruitment fees paid by workers. Where non-compliance or areas of concern are identified, we work with suppliers to agree corrective action plans and timeframes for improvement.

We reserve the right to cease working with suppliers who fail to demonstrate improvement or who are found to have engaged in modern slavery practices without taking effective remedial action.

Training, Awareness, and Reporting Channels

We provide training and guidance to relevant employees so they can recognise the signs of modern slavery and understand the steps to take if they suspect any form of exploitation. This includes managers, supervisors, and employees involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management. Our aim is to ensure that everyone understands their responsibilities and feels confident in raising concerns.

Gardeners Chalk Farm encourages a culture of openness and accountability. Employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to report any concerns related to modern slavery or unethical labour practices. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting lines or directly to management. Reports can be made confidentially, and we do not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith.

All reports of suspected modern slavery are treated seriously. We investigate promptly, take appropriate action where necessary, and, where relevant, engage with external organisations or authorities. We are committed to supporting individuals who may be affected and to addressing any adverse impacts identified.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Our approach to tackling modern slavery is one of continuous improvement. We recognise that risks evolve and that our response must also adapt. Each year, Gardeners Chalk Farm reviews this Modern Slavery Statement and our associated policies, procedures, and controls.

The annual review considers changes in our operations and supply chains, updates to legislation and best practice guidance, and any incidents or concerns reported during the year. Where opportunities for improvement are identified, we update our processes, refine our risk assessment criteria, enhance training materials, and strengthen our supplier engagement activities.

This statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Chalk Farm, who are responsible for overseeing its implementation and ensuring that sufficient resources are allocated to prevent modern slavery in our business and supply chains. It will be updated and published annually to reflect our ongoing commitment to ethical and responsible business conduct.