Gardeners Chessington Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Gardeners Chessington in respect of our financial year ending 31 December. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. Gardeners Chessington is committed to conducting business ethically, transparently, and with respect for fundamental human rights.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Chessington has a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced or compulsory labour, and child labour. We will not knowingly engage with any organisation, supplier, or contractor that is involved in such practices or that fails to demonstrate adequate preventive measures. This commitment applies to all aspects of our operations, including the procurement of goods, materials, plants, equipment, and services, as well as the engagement of labour or subcontracted work.

All employees, managers, and contractors are expected to act with integrity at all times and to uphold the values and principles set out in this statement. Any breach of this policy by an employee may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Any breach by a supplier or contractor may result in the review, suspension, or termination of the business relationship.

Our Supply Chains and Due Diligence

Our supply chains include providers of horticultural products, landscaping materials, tools and machinery, uniform and workwear, as well as professional and maintenance services. We recognise that certain parts of these supply chains may present a higher risk of labour exploitation, particularly where products originate from jurisdictions with weaker labour protections.

To address these risks, Gardeners Chessington undertakes proportionate due diligence on existing and new suppliers. This includes assessing their ethical sourcing policies, working practices, and compliance with applicable labour and human rights legislation. We seek assurances that our suppliers operate lawful, fair, and safe workplaces, and that they themselves take active steps to prevent modern slavery in their own supply chains.

Supplier Standards and Audit Measures

We expect all suppliers and contractors to adhere to standards that are consistent with this Modern Slavery Statement. As part of our ongoing supplier management, we may conduct audits or request evidence to confirm compliance with our ethical requirements, including:

Verification of the right to work and age of workers, confirmation of freely chosen employment without retention of identity documents or payment of unlawful recruitment fees, records of working hours and wages demonstrating compliance with legal minimums, and policies that prohibit forced, bonded, or involuntary labour.

Where appropriate, we may visit supplier premises or request third-party certifications and audit reports. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to meet our expectations or to address identified concerns promptly and effectively, we will consider ending the commercial relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Raising Issues

Gardeners Chessington encourages all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business or supply chains. Concerns may relate to working conditions, recruitment practices, treatment of workers, or any behaviour that is inconsistent with this statement.

Reports can be made to management or other designated senior personnel. We are committed to handling all concerns sensitively, confidentially where possible, and without retaliation against any person who raises an issue in good faith. All credible concerns will be assessed promptly, and appropriate action will be taken, which may include investigation, engagement with suppliers, remediation steps, or escalation to relevant authorities where required.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We recognise that raising awareness is essential to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking. Gardeners Chessington provides suitable information and guidance to relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, or supplier engagement. This helps them to identify risk indicators, understand our zero-tolerance stance, and know how to respond to concerns.

We are committed to reviewing and improving our procedures over time. This includes developing clearer supplier expectations, strengthening our due diligence processes, and integrating modern slavery considerations into our broader risk management and business planning.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for the oversight of this Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement rests with the senior management of Gardeners Chessington. They are responsible for ensuring that appropriate policies and controls are in place and that these are implemented consistently across our operations.

This statement will be reviewed at least annually, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, our business activities, or our understanding of modern slavery risks. Any updates or enhancements to our approach will be approved at a senior level.

By publishing this statement, Gardeners Chessington affirms its commitment to acting ethically and with integrity in all business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains.