Gardeners Heston Modern Slavery Statement
Gardeners Heston is committed to a zero-tolerance policy on all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking. This Gardeners Heston modern slavery statement sets out our approach to preventing slavery and human trafficking in our business and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to respect human rights and to take clear, measurable steps to reduce the risk of slavery, forced labour and exploitation in every part of our operations.
We adopt an anti-slavery policy that applies across Gardeners Heston, to all employees, temporary staff and contractors. Our stance is unequivocal: any instance of forced labour, bonded labour, or exploitative practices will trigger immediate action. This anti-modern slavery framework is embedded in our code of conduct and is reinforced through staff training and clear management expectations.
As part of our commitment to combat slavery and trafficking, we operate a robust supplier due diligence programme. Our supplier audits and risk assessments focus on the most vulnerable parts of the supply chain, including seasonal labour and subcontracted services. We perform pre-engagement checks and ongoing reviews to ensure suppliers share our values and adhere to mandatory labour standards.
Supplier Audits and Responsible Sourcing
Our supplier audit programme includes on-site inspections, document reviews and worker interviews where appropriate. We use risk-based criteria to prioritise audits and we publish internal reports that drive corrective action. The programme covers recruitment practices, wage compliance, working hours and health and safety. If issues are detected, we require remediation plans and monitor progress until compliance is achieved.
We maintain a list of core expectations for suppliers which includes:
- Lawful employment: no forced, bonded or indentured labour;
- Transparent recruitment: no excessive fees charged to workers;
- Freedom of association: safe channels for collective voice;
- Fair wages and timely payment in line with local law;
- Safe working conditions and clear grievance mechanisms.
Where suppliers fail to comply, we will work to remediate problems. Persistent or serious breaches will lead to contract termination and removal from our approved supplier pool. Our approach balances remediation, protection of workers and contractual consequences.
Reporting Channels and Protection for Whistleblowers
Gardeners Heston operates multiple confidential reporting channels for concerns about slavery and exploitation. Employees and third parties can raise issues through anonymous hotlines, internal reporting systems and designated compliance officers. We guarantee that all reports are taken seriously, investigated promptly and handled sensitively to protect the identities of whistleblowers.
Our reporting process emphasises non-retaliation: any form of reprisal against someone who reports a concern in good faith is strictly prohibited. We also provide training so staff and contractors know how to recognise signs of modern slavery, forced labour or trafficking and how to report suspected cases through the appropriate channels.
Gardeners Heston will continue to develop and improve its anti-slavery measures. As part of our governance, the Board receives regular updates on supplier audits, remediation outcomes and whistleblower reports. We integrate learnings from investigations into policy updates and training modules to strengthen prevention.
Annual Review and Continuous Improvement
The effectiveness of this modern slavery statement is reviewed at least annually. Our annual review assesses policy impact, audit coverage, remediation success and emerging risks across the business. Findings from this review inform our action plan for the following year and are used to refine supplier engagement and monitoring strategies.
Gardeners Heston is committed to continuous improvement in anti-slavery practice. We will keep enhancing our supplier audits, strengthen reporting channels and deepen staff awareness. By combining strong governance, practical auditing and accessible reporting, we aim to eliminate modern slavery from our operations and supply chain.
Conclusion: Gardeners Heston’s anti-slavery statement reflects a comprehensive approach: a zero-tolerance policy, rigorous supplier audits, secure reporting channels and an annual review cycle to ensure lasting progress against slavery and human trafficking.
