Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Hayes Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Hayes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. Gardeners Hayes is committed to acting ethically and with integrity and transparency in all our business relationships, and to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery does not occur anywhere in our organisation or among our suppliers.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Hayes has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, servitude and human trafficking. We expect the same high standards from everyone we work with, including employees, agency workers, contractors, consultants and all suppliers. Any confirmed instance of modern slavery connected to our business will lead to decisive remedial action, which may include termination of contracts, notification to relevant authorities and support for affected individuals where appropriate.

This commitment is communicated clearly across our organisation and forms part of our wider approach to ethical conduct, health and safety, and respect for human rights. We recognise that modern slavery can occur in any country or sector and we remain vigilant to potential risks, including within lower tiers of our supply chain.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our suppliers are required to operate in line with the values and standards of Gardeners Hayes. We expect them to comply with all applicable employment, labour and human rights legislation, and to ensure that work is freely chosen, working conditions are safe and humane, and wages meet or exceed legal and industry standards.

To support this, we are developing and maintaining a structured process for supplier due diligence. This includes risk-based assessments of suppliers, particularly where goods or services are sourced from higher risk industries or regions. Where appropriate, we conduct audits or request evidence of compliance, such as policies on forced labour, recruitment practices and worker welfare.

If a supplier is found to be in breach of our standards or unable to provide adequate assurance, we will work with them to address the issues through corrective action plans and follow-up reviews. Where satisfactory progress is not made, Gardeners Hayes reserves the right to suspend or end the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Hayes encourages all employees, workers and suppliers to raise concerns about any suspicion of modern slavery or unethical labour practices, without fear of retaliation. Concerns may include indicators of forced labour, unsafe working conditions, exploitation of vulnerable workers, or any conduct that might amount to modern slavery.

Reports can be made through internal reporting routes, including line managers or senior management, or via established whistleblowing channels within our organisation. All concerns raised will be treated seriously and handled sensitively. We will investigate reports promptly, take appropriate action where issues are identified and, where necessary, engage with relevant authorities.

We are committed to ensuring that no one who raises a concern in good faith suffers any detrimental treatment as a result. This includes protection against dismissal, disciplinary action or any form of victimisation.

Training, Awareness and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Hayes is working to enhance training and awareness on modern slavery risks among relevant employees, including those involved in procurement, recruitment and supplier management. Training focuses on understanding potential risk factors, recognising warning signs, and knowing how to report concerns.

We seek to continuously improve our approach, reviewing our processes and controls in light of evolving best practice, stakeholder feedback and changes in legislation. We also look to engage with suppliers and industry partners to share good practice and promote higher standards across our supply chain.

Annual Review of this Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least annually by the senior leadership team of Gardeners Hayes to ensure it remains accurate, effective and aligned with our operational practices. As part of the review, we consider the effectiveness of our due diligence processes, supplier audits, training programmes and reporting mechanisms, as well as any incidents or concerns raised during the year.

Following each review, we will update our statement and associated procedures as necessary to strengthen our prevention of modern slavery and human trafficking. This statement represents the ongoing commitment of Gardeners Hayes to uphold human rights, protect vulnerable individuals and conduct business responsibly throughout our operations and supply chains.