Gardener Deptford Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out Gardener Deptford's commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking across our operations and supply chain. We apply a zero-tolerance policy to any form of forced labour, exploitation or human trafficking, and we require all colleagues and suppliers to uphold the highest ethical standards. This anti-slavery declaration reflects our continuous effort to identify and address risks of modern slavery within our business.
Our anti-slavery policy is embedded in corporate governance and is supported by senior management. We expect the same standards of integrity from our suppliers and subcontractors. Gardener Deptford actively seeks to ensure compliance through contractual obligations and clear expectations, and we will not tolerate any breaches of this policy. Modern slavery in any part of our operations will be met with swift and decisive action.
To identify and mitigate risks we conduct risk assessments and implement proportionate due diligence. Supplier audits and verification processes are central to our approach. We maintain a programme of supplier checks including:
- Risk-based supplier audits and site visits;
- Contract clauses requiring adherence to our anti-slavery standards;
- Required evidence of worker rights, lawful recruitment and transparent employment practices.
Supply Chain and Supplier Audits
We operate a structured supplier audit programme that targets higher-risk tiers of the supply chain. Audits include documentation review, on-site inspections and interviews where appropriate. Where potential instances of exploitation are identified, we require corrective action plans and monitor progress until issues are resolved. These measures strengthen our modern slavery compliance and reduce the risk of forced labour entering our procurement channels.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
Gardener Deptford provides multiple reporting channels for employees, suppliers and third parties to raise concerns about suspected modern slavery. Reports can be made anonymously and will be treated confidentially. We protect whistleblowers from retaliation and take all allegations seriously. Our reporting systems are designed to be accessible and secure, ensuring that concerns about slavery, trafficking or exploitation are escalated for investigation.Investigations follow a clear process: allegations are logged, risk-assessed, investigated and, where substantiated, remediated. We work with external experts and, when appropriate, local authorities to ensure victims receive support. Supplier audits are complemented by routine monitoring, contractual checks and targeted training for procurement teams.
Training, Governance and Responsibility
We deliver training to employees and relevant third parties to raise awareness of modern slavery indicators and reporting procedures. Governance is provided by senior leaders who review compliance performance regularly. Our procurement teams are accountable for enforcing anti-slavery standards, and we use a combination of contractual remedies and commercial incentives to drive compliance across the supplier base.Where non-compliance is found, we require suppliers to implement corrective action, which may include remediation, monitoring plans or, in serious cases, termination of contracts. We pursue continuous improvement through supplier engagement, capacity building and periodic reassessment. Strong contractual terms and supplier performance metrics ensure accountability throughout our value chain.
