Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Cranford has taken, and is continuing to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. Gardeners Cranford is committed to conducting business ethically, with integrity, and with respect for the dignity and rights of every individual.

Modern slavery is a crime and a grave violation of fundamental human rights. It takes various forms, including slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour, bonded labour, and human trafficking. Gardeners Cranford recognises its responsibility to help prevent these abuses in all aspects of our business activities.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Cranford has a clear, zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, contractor, or organisation that participates in, facilitates, or turns a blind eye to any form of modern slavery. This principle applies to our own workforce, agency workers, subcontractors, and all levels of our supply chain.

Our policy requires that all workers are employed voluntarily, are free to leave their employment upon reasonable notice, and are not subjected to threats, coercion, or deception. We do not tolerate child labour, and we expect all partners to comply with applicable minimum age and working condition laws in the jurisdictions where they operate.

All employees and managers at Gardeners Cranford are expected to uphold this policy. Any breach of our zero-tolerance stance may lead to disciplinary action, termination of contracts, or the ending of commercial relationships.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

We recognise that the greatest modern slavery risks often arise within extended supply chains. Gardeners Cranford is committed to working only with suppliers and service providers that share our values and can demonstrate that they operate ethically, transparently, and in full respect of human rights.

We are progressively strengthening our supplier due diligence procedures. New suppliers are assessed against ethical and labour standards, including their approach to preventing forced labour, child labour, and human trafficking. Existing suppliers may be required to confirm compliance with our modern slavery expectations and relevant legislation.

Gardeners Cranford reserves the right to conduct audits or request independent assessments of suppliers where we identify a higher risk of labour exploitation or lack of transparency. These audits may include document reviews, interviews with workers, and site inspections. Where non-compliance is identified, we will work collaboratively with the supplier on corrective actions, set clear timelines for improvement, and, if necessary, suspend or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Raising Concerns

Gardeners Cranford encourages an open culture where concerns about suspected modern slavery can be raised safely and without fear of retaliation. Employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers are expected to speak up promptly if they become aware of conduct that may indicate labour exploitation or human trafficking.

Concerns can be reported to line managers, senior management, or designated safeguarding and compliance contacts within the business. Reports will be treated seriously, confidentially where possible, and investigated promptly and impartially. No person raising a concern in good faith will suffer detriment, even if the concern is not ultimately substantiated.

If an instance of modern slavery is identified, Gardeners Cranford will take swift action, which may include notifying relevant authorities, supporting affected individuals, and reviewing our internal controls to prevent recurrence.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Cranford is working to increase awareness of modern slavery risks among employees whose roles involve procurement, supplier management, or workforce supervision. Training and guidance are provided to help these employees recognise potential indicators of exploitation and understand how to respond appropriately.

We are committed to continuous improvement and will update our procedures as best practice evolves, legislation changes, and our understanding of modern slavery risks deepens.

Annual Review and Governance

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is approved by the leadership of Gardeners Cranford and is reviewed annually. The review process considers changes to legislation, feedback from stakeholders, outcomes of supplier audits, and any reported concerns or incidents. Where necessary, we will revise our policies, due diligence measures, and training programmes to enhance effectiveness.

By publishing this statement, Gardeners Cranford reaffirms its commitment to acting ethically and responsibly, to safeguarding the rights and welfare of all workers in our operations and supply chains, and to playing our part in eradicating modern slavery and human trafficking.