Modern Slavery Statement for Gardeners Hayes

At Gardeners Hayes, we are committed to conducting our work with integrity, fairness, and respect for every individual involved in our operations and supply chain. This modern slavery statement sets out the steps we take to prevent slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, and other forms of exploitation. We recognise that responsible business practice begins with clear zero-tolerance expectations and consistent action across all parts of the organisation.

Our approach applies to every area of the Gardener Hayes business, including employees, subcontractors, and suppliers. We do not accept any form of coercion, debt bondage, child labour, or deceptive recruitment practices. By embedding ethical standards into our daily operations, Gardeners Hayes aims to protect workers, uphold legal compliance, and support a safe and fair working environment for everyone connected to our services.

We expect all team members to understand their responsibilities in identifying and preventing modern slavery risks. This includes being alert to signs such as restricted movement, withheld documents, unfair wages, unsafe living conditions, or intimidation. The commitment of Gardener Hayes is not limited to policy alone; it is reflected in training, oversight, and the active promotion of ethical conduct throughout our business relationships.

Supplier Standards and Due Diligence

Suppliers play a vital role in maintaining our standards. Gardeners Hayes undertakes proportionate supplier audits and due diligence checks to assess labour practices, recruitment methods, and overall compliance with anti-slavery expectations. Where appropriate, we review policies, contract terms, worker welfare measures, and evidence of lawful employment practices to confirm that suppliers share our commitment to responsible sourcing.

When working with a new or existing supplier, Gardeners Hayes seeks assurances that all workers are employed voluntarily and treated with dignity. If concerns arise, we may request corrective action, increase monitoring, or end the relationship where necessary. This process helps ensure that the supply chain supporting Gardeners Hayes remains transparent, accountable, and aligned with our zero-tolerance policy.

We also recognise that risk can vary by sector, geography, and service type. For that reason, our checks are not treated as a one-time exercise. Gardeners Hayes applies a risk-based approach that allows us to focus more attention on higher-risk suppliers and work arrangements, while continuing to reinforce ethical expectations across all other partnerships.

Reporting Concerns and Taking Action

Anyone working with or for Gardeners Hayes is encouraged to report concerns without delay if they suspect exploitation, unsafe labour practices, or any breach of this statement. Reporting channels are designed to be accessible and supportive, allowing concerns to be raised internally through management or designated safeguarding routes. We expect all reports to be handled seriously, discreetly, and with appropriate urgency.

We do not tolerate retaliation against anyone who raises a genuine concern in good faith. Protecting whistleblowers is an essential part of the Gardener Hayes approach, because people are more likely to speak up when they know they will be treated fairly. If an issue is identified, Gardeners Hayes will investigate, take corrective action where required, and work to prevent recurrence through stronger controls or supplier engagement.

Our reporting process is supported by clear internal responsibility. Managers are expected to act promptly on any warning signs, escalate concerns appropriately, and document actions taken. In this way, Gardeners Hayes seeks to create a culture in which modern slavery risks are identified early and addressed decisively, not ignored or normalised.

Review, Governance, and Continuous Improvement

This statement is reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant, effective, and aligned with current legal requirements and business practices. As part of the annual review, Gardeners Hayes assesses the effectiveness of supplier audits, reporting routes, and internal awareness measures. We use the findings to strengthen controls and refine our risk management approach where needed.

Annual review also allows Gardener Hayes to respond to changes in operations, supplier networks, and modern slavery risks across the wider market. We view this as an ongoing responsibility rather than a static document. By reviewing progress each year, Gardeners Hayes reinforces accountability and demonstrates a continuing commitment to ethical labour standards.

In summary, Gardeners Hayes maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward modern slavery and human trafficking, supported by supplier audits, accessible reporting channels, and an annual review process. We will continue to improve our practices, uphold human rights, and ensure that our business remains a place where people are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect.