Gardener Wanstead Modern Slavery Statement
Gardener Wanstead publishes this Modern Slavery Statement to set out our commitment to preventing all forms of exploitation across our operations and supply chain. This anti-slavery policy reflects our clear and enduring position: we operate a zero-tolerance approach to forced labour, human trafficking and any form of modern slavery. We expect the same high standards from suppliers, contractors and partners engaged by Gardener Wanstead.
We maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward exploitation. All employees and sub-contractors are informed that any evidence of coercion, withholding of documents, restricted movement, or threats will trigger immediate action. Reports of suspected modern slavery or human trafficking are treated with urgency; suspected incidents are escalated to senior management and investigated under our internal policy. The Gardener Wanstead team promotes a culture of vigilance and compassionate response to potential victims.
Our supplier due diligence and supplier audits are central to our prevention strategy. We assess prospective and existing suppliers for compliance with labour standards, ethical recruitment practices, and transparency in payroll and worker records. Key elements of our procurement checks include:
- Supplier self-assessments and declarations of compliance
- On-site and remote audits focusing on worker treatment and payroll
- Corrective action plans with clear timelines for remediation
Reporting Channels and Protected Disclosure
Gardener Wanstead offers multiple, secure reporting channels to raise concerns. Employees, temporary workers and third parties can report suspicions via anonymous mechanisms or by speaking to a designated manager. We ensure that anyone raising a concern is protected from reprisals and that disclosures are treated in confidence. All reports enter a documented review process and are logged for follow-up action and trend analysis.
We recognise the importance of clear, accessible reporting channels. Reports are triaged by our compliance lead and investigated by an appointed team. If a report indicates potential criminal conduct, we will involve appropriate authorities. Our investigative approach balances prompt protective measures for affected individuals with a fair and thorough fact-finding process for those implicated.
To strengthen transparency, Gardener Wanstead conducts regular supplier audits and ongoing monitoring. Audit outcomes inform our risk-based approach: higher-risk suppliers are subject to increased scrutiny and scheduled re-audits. Non-compliance triggers remedial plans and, where necessary, termination of contracts if improvements are not achieved within agreed timescales. We aim to remediate rather than immediately sever relationships, provided worker safety and rights are the priority.
Training, Due Diligence and Continuous Improvement
All staff with procurement or supervisory responsibilities receive training in recognising signs of exploitation and in the appropriate response. Training content is refreshed annually and aligned to emerging risks in the horticulture, groundskeeping and service sectors. Our hiring and vetting processes include checks for recruitment fees, retention of identity documents, and transparent wage practices.
We require our suppliers to commit contractually to labour standards consistent with this modern slavery policy. Contract clauses set expectations for worker treatment, recruitment transparency and cooperation with audits. Where feasible we encourage suppliers to adopt fair recruitment practices and to provide documentation demonstrating lawful employment, fair wages and safe working conditions.
Gardener Wanstead undertakes an annual review of this modern slavery statement and related policies. The review assesses incident records, audit findings, training uptake, and the effectiveness of reporting channels. Outcomes of the review shape our priorities, resources and action plans for the following year. The Board and senior management endorse continuous improvement measures to further reduce the risk of modern slavery across our value chain.
Commitment: Gardener Wanstead remains resolute in its promise to combat modern slavery and uphold worker dignity. This slavery and human trafficking statement reflects our ongoing efforts to detect, prevent and remediate any practices inconsistent with our values. We will continue to refine our approach through supplier audits, robust reporting channels, staff training and an annual review cycle to ensure sustained progress.