Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement for Gardeners Harold Hill

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the approach of Gardeners Harold Hill to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. As a gardening and grounds maintenance business, we recognise our responsibility to uphold the highest ethical standards and to ensure that the people who work for us and with us are treated with dignity and respect.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Harold Hill operates a clear and strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced or compulsory labour, and child labour. We are committed to acting ethically in all our business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery does not take place within our own business or in any part of our supply chains.

All staff, from management to front-line operatives, are expected to support this commitment. Any conduct that is inconsistent with this policy will be investigated and may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment or business relationships where appropriate.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners Harold Hill provides gardening, landscaping, and grounds maintenance services. Our supply chains primarily include suppliers of plants, soil and aggregates, tools and equipment, uniforms and protective clothing, and general business services. We understand that risks can exist at any level of a supply chain and we are committed to identifying and managing those risks effectively.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We expect all our suppliers, contractors, and business partners to uphold the same high standards that we apply internally. Our supplier standards require that suppliers do not use forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, do not employ anyone under the minimum legal working age, and provide safe and fair working conditions with wages and benefits that at least meet legal requirements.

To support these expectations, we carry out proportionate checks and audits of our key suppliers. These may include requesting details of their own modern slavery policies, reviewing public statements and certifications, assessing their labour practices, and, where appropriate, site visits. We give preference to suppliers who demonstrate clear and transparent commitments to ethical labour standards. If we identify a breach or credible risk, we may require corrective action, increase monitoring, or, in serious cases, terminate the relationship.

Training and Awareness

We aim to raise awareness among our staff of the signs of modern slavery and the steps to take if they have concerns. Induction and periodic refresher training for relevant roles explain what modern slavery is, how it can appear in the horticulture and services sectors, and how to report concerns safely. Managers are expected to promote a culture in which ethical concerns can be raised without fear of retaliation.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Harold Hill encourages anyone working for us, with us, or alongside us to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery at the earliest possible stage. Concerns can be raised with a line manager or a senior manager in person or in writing. We also support the use of any internal whistleblowing routes that may be available within partner organisations.

All reports will be treated seriously and, where possible, confidentially. We will investigate concerns promptly and impartially and take appropriate action if wrongdoing is identified. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated following investigation.

Risk Assessment and Due Diligence

We periodically assess the risk of modern slavery in our business activities and supply chains, taking into account the nature of the services we provide, the locations in which work is undertaken, and the types of goods and services we procure. Where higher risks are identified, we apply enhanced due diligence, which may include additional questions for suppliers, more frequent reviews, or contractual commitments to specific labour standards.

Monitoring and Annual Review

This statement and our broader approach to modern slavery are reviewed every year to ensure they remain effective and reflect any changes in our operations, supply chains, or legal obligations. As part of the annual review, we consider feedback from staff and suppliers, audit findings, any reported concerns, and developments in best practice.

The results of this review inform improvements to our policies, procedures, training, and supplier oversight. Gardeners Harold Hill is committed to continuous improvement in identifying, preventing, and addressing any risk of modern slavery within our business and supply chains.