Modern Slavery Statement — Gardening Services Rotherhithe

Gardening Services Rotherhithe is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all its forms throughout our operations and supply chains. This statement sets out our policy and the steps we take to ensure a zero-tolerance approach to exploitation, forced labour and any form of involuntary servitude. We operate with integrity, transparency and respect for human rights, and we expect the same standards from suppliers, contractors and partners that work with our Rotherhithe gardening teams.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

We maintain a clear zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery. All staff, from gardeners to office personnel, receive mandatory training that explains their responsibilities to spot and report signs of exploitation. This policy applies to direct employees and extends to our network of sub-contractors providing landscaping, waste removal, seasonal labour and specialist garden services in the Rotherhithe area and beyond.

We define modern slavery broadly to include forced labour, debt bondage, human trafficking and any coercive labour practices. Our employment processes include checks to ensure workers are legally eligible to work, are paid at least the legal minimum, and receive agreed terms. Managers are required to escalate suspicious circumstances immediately so we can act swiftly to protect vulnerable individuals and remove exploitative practices from our operations.

Supply Chain Expectations

We recognise that supply chains for garden materials, tools, plant stock and seasonal labour can present risks. Rotherhithe garden services partners are expected to adhere to our code of conduct which requires ethical sourcing, fair wages and safe working conditions. Contract agreements include clauses that require suppliers to comply with anti-slavery laws and to permit audit and inspection of records and premises where necessary.

To manage risk we apply a proportionate due diligence process which includes:

• Pre-engagement supplier screening and risk profiling;
• Contract clauses mandating compliance with modern slavery legislation;
• On-site inspections and verification of payroll and worker documentation when indicated.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

Our programme of supplier audits focuses on higher-risk categories such as seasonal labour providers, subcontracted landscaping teams and bulk plant suppliers. Audits are carried out by trained personnel or independent auditors, and cover working hours, wage records, accommodation (where provided), recruitment fees and evidence of freely given consent to employment. Where non-compliance is identified we require corrective action plans, with follow-up audits to ensure remediation.

Reporting Channels and Protections

We operate multiple confidential reporting channels to encourage the reporting of concerns without fear of retaliation. Staff and third parties can report suspected modern slavery through anonymous internal reporting mechanisms and by informing designated safeguarding officers. Reports are assessed promptly and impartially, and we ensure confidentiality and support for any individual affected while investigations proceed.

We will cooperate fully with law enforcement and relevant authorities where criminal activity is suspected. In addition to formal investigations, we apply proportionate remedial steps for victims, which may include safe redeployment, access to medical or welfare support, and collaboration with specialist organisations able to provide care and legal assistance where appropriate.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement — This modern slavery statement is reviewed at least once every 12 months as part of our commitment to continuous improvement. The annual review evaluates the effectiveness of policies, training uptake, audit outcomes and any incidents or near-misses. Results of the review inform updated risk assessments, enhanced supplier engagement, revised contractual protections and targeted training for staff and managers.