Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Berrylands

Gardeners Berrylands is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all areas of our operations. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitative practices within our own activities and across our supply chain. Our zero-tolerance policy applies to every aspect of the business, from procurement and site operations to subcontracted support and material sourcing. We expect all colleagues, suppliers, and partners to uphold the same standards.

Modern slavery can take many forms, including debt bondage, child labour, coercion, and restrictions on freedom. At Gardeners Berrylands, we recognise that landscaping, grounds care, and horticultural services may involve multiple suppliers and labour providers, which can increase risk if not carefully managed. We therefore use proportionate checks, clear contractual expectations, and ongoing oversight to help ensure that our work remains lawful, fair, and respectful of human rights.

Our approach begins with due diligence before engaging new suppliers. We assess risk factors such as geographic location, labour model, and the nature of the goods or services provided. Where appropriate, we request confirmations relating to employment practices, right-to-work procedures, and worker welfare. Supplier onboarding includes a review of ethical standards so that those supporting Gardeners Berrylands understand our expectations from the outset.

We also carry out supplier audits on a risk-based schedule. These audits may include document checks, site observations, and reviews of subcontracting arrangements to identify any signs of non-compliance. If concerns are identified, we require prompt corrective action and may suspend or terminate the relationship where necessary. This process helps strengthen the integrity of the Berrylands gardening supply chain and demonstrates that compliance is not optional.

Training and awareness are central to our policy. Managers and relevant team members are briefed on the warning signs of exploitation, including inconsistent pay practices, restricted movement, poor accommodation conditions, or reluctance to speak freely. By ensuring that staff understand the issue, we improve our ability to identify and respond to concerns in a timely and responsible way. Our culture is built on vigilance, dignity, and respect for every worker involved in our operations.

We maintain multiple reporting channels so concerns can be raised safely and without fear of retaliation. Any worker, supplier, or associate who suspects a breach of our standards may report it through internal management routes or designated safeguarding procedures. Reports are treated seriously, investigated confidentially where possible, and escalated appropriately. We encourage early reporting because prompt action can prevent harm and support affected individuals.

In addition to immediate response measures, Gardeners Berrylands keeps records of risks, audits, and remedial actions to support accountability. Where incidents or concerns arise, we review root causes and take steps to improve controls, supplier management, and staff training. This evidence-based approach ensures that our anti-slavery measures remain practical and effective rather than purely procedural.

Our commitment extends to fair recruitment and responsible labour practices. We do not knowingly work with any organisation that uses forced, bonded, or trafficked labour. We also expect all suppliers to comply with applicable employment law, provide clear terms of work, and avoid charging workers fees that could create dependency or coercion. These expectations are embedded into our modern slavery prevention framework and applied consistently across the business.

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with legal obligations and operational realities. The review considers audit findings, reported concerns, supplier performance, and any changes in risk profile. Where improvements are needed, we update our procedures and strengthen oversight. Through this annual review cycle, Gardeners Berrylands reaffirms its long-term commitment to ethical practice, responsible sourcing, and the prevention of exploitation in every part of its work.