Gardener Morden: Modern Slavery Statement

Gardener Morden publishes this Modern Slavery Statement to affirm a clear and uncompromising commitment to eradicate slavery and human trafficking from our operations and supply chains. Our zero-tolerance policy means that any form of forced labour, exploitation or human trafficking is unacceptable within our business, and we will act decisively where concerns arise. This modern slavery policy applies to all employees, contractors and suppliers working with Gardener Morden and informs every procurement and contractual decision we make.

We recognise that a robust slavery and human trafficking statement must be practical, measurable and visible. Our approach includes training, risk assessment and the embedding of anti-slavery principles into procurement contracts. The company promotes a culture where staff are empowered to raise concerns; we treat allegations seriously and ensure appropriate investigation. As part of our anti-slavery commitment, we set clear expectations for partners and use contractual clauses requiring compliance with our standards.

To assure adherence we operate a programme of supplier audits and vetting. Our supplier audit process is risk-based and includes desktop review and targeted on-site inspections where necessary. Suppliers are assessed on labour standards, recruitment practices and payroll transparency. Non-compliance triggers corrective action plans and, where improvement is not achieved, termination of the relationship. Gardener Morden’s supplier audits support continuous improvement and help identify areas where additional support or remediation is required.

Our Anti-Slavery and Human Trafficking Policy

Implementation of this modern slavery and human trafficking policy is overseen by senior management and supported by operational teams. Staff receive regular awareness training to identify signs of exploitation and understand reporting responsibilities. We maintain documented procedures for due diligence in onboarding new suppliers, including checks on labour practices, subcontracts and recruitment agencies. These measures form the backbone of our prevention strategy.

We operate multiple reporting channels to ensure safe and confidential disclosure of concerns. Reporting channels include internal escalation to managers, secure anonymous submission processes and a whistleblowing mechanism that protects reporters from retaliation. The channels are designed to be accessible to employees, temporary workers and supply chain workers alike. Our reporting framework emphasises timely investigation, support for potential victims and proportionate remedial action.

Expectations of suppliers are communicated clearly and enforced through contractual terms. We maintain a set of procurement standards that requires suppliers to:

• Prohibit forced labour and human trafficking in all forms;
• Demonstrate transparent recruitment and wage practices;
• Cooperate with audits and remedial action plans.

We use a mixture of documentary evidence, declarations and audits to verify compliance and apply sanctions where necessary.

Monitoring, Review and Annual Review

Gardener Morden commits to an annual review of this slavery and human trafficking statement and associated policies. The annual review assesses policy effectiveness, audit outcomes, training uptake and any incidents reported through our channels. We set measurable objectives and key performance indicators to track progress and publish outcomes internally to maintain transparency and accountability.

Where breaches are identified, we take prompt corrective action which may include suspension of contracts, remediation for affected workers and referral to appropriate authorities when criminal behaviour is suspected. Our response is informed by the severity of the breach and the needs of impacted individuals. We also emphasise prevention, working collaboratively with suppliers to close gaps and improve labour standards.

In conclusion, Gardener Morden’s anti-slavery statement reflects a sustained, organisation-wide commitment to preventing modern slavery. We retain a zero-tolerance stance, backed by supplier audits, accessible reporting channels and an annual review cycle to ensure continuous improvement. This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed by senior leadership and forms part of our broader ethical and sustainability obligations. We remain vigilant and proactive in protecting workers and upholding human rights across our operations and supply chains.