Gardeners Mitcham Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Gardeners Mitcham in relation to our operations and supply chains. It outlines the steps we take to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our gardening, landscaping, and related services. We recognise our responsibility to respect and promote human rights and to act ethically in everything we do.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Mitcham has a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. We are committed to ensuring that all work is undertaken voluntarily and that every individual associated with our business is treated with dignity and respect.

We do not knowingly engage with any supplier, subcontractor, or business partner that is involved in, or fails to take adequate steps to prevent, modern slavery or human trafficking. Any suspected breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in the termination of commercial relationships and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners Mitcham provides gardening, grounds maintenance, and landscaping services. Our supply chains include the sourcing of plants, gardening materials, equipment, uniforms, and associated services. We understand that risks of modern slavery can exist at various stages in these supply chains, especially where products or components originate from higher risk sectors or regions.

We are working to improve visibility and transparency across our supply chains and expect all of our suppliers to uphold labour standards that are consistent with our own values and legal obligations.

Supplier Standards and Audits

All suppliers and subcontractors engaged by Gardeners Mitcham are expected to comply with our ethical procurement standards, which incorporate principles designed to prevent modern slavery. We seek to work with partners who can demonstrate that they treat their workers fairly, provide safe working conditions, and respect human rights.

We conduct proportionate supplier due diligence and audits, focusing on higher risk categories and regions. This may include requesting information about labour practices, reviewing relevant policies, seeking written confirmations of compliance, and, where appropriate, arranging site visits or third-party assessments. Where shortcomings are identified, we work with suppliers to implement corrective actions within a reasonable timeframe. Persistent or serious non-compliance may lead to the suspension or ending of our relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Mitcham encourages all employees, workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions relating to modern slavery or human trafficking. Concerns can be raised internally with management or through established reporting channels, such as our whistleblowing procedures.

We are committed to ensuring that individuals who raise concerns in good faith are protected from retaliation or detrimental treatment. Reports are treated seriously, investigated promptly, and, where necessary, escalated to senior management for further action. If credible risks or incidents are identified, we will act to address them and, where appropriate, cooperate with relevant authorities.

Training and Awareness

We aim to build awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and supplier relationships. Training and guidance are provided so that colleagues can identify warning signs, understand our policies, and respond appropriately to potential issues.

By promoting awareness and open communication, we seek to create a culture where ethical conduct is expected and concerns are raised without hesitation.

Review, Monitoring, and Continuous Improvement

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by the management of Gardeners Mitcham. As part of this review, we assess the effectiveness of our existing measures, consider changes in our operations or supply chains, and identify opportunities for improvement.

We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach to combating modern slavery. Over time, we aim to strengthen our due diligence processes, broaden supplier engagement, refine our training and reporting mechanisms, and enhance transparency across our business and supply networks.

By publishing this statement, Gardeners Mitcham reaffirms its commitment to act ethically, to respect human rights, and to work proactively with employees, suppliers, and partners to help eradicate modern slavery and human trafficking wherever they may occur within our sphere of influence.