Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Bellingham has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to act ethically, transparently, and with integrity in all our business relationships and to implement effective systems and controls to safeguard against any form of modern slavery.

Our Organisation

Gardeners Bellingham operates within the gardening, landscaping, and related services sector. Our activities rely on a network of suppliers and contractors that provide products, materials, equipment, and labour support. We understand that elements of our supply chain may be exposed to higher risks of labour exploitation, and we are committed to identifying and addressing those risks proactively.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

Gardeners Bellingham has a clear zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and all forms of exploitation. This position applies to every part of our own operations and to all third parties who supply goods or services to us. We expect all staff, contractors, and suppliers to uphold the highest standards of human rights and to comply with all applicable labour laws.

Our zero-tolerance policy is communicated through our internal policies, supplier requirements, and contractual documentation. Non-compliance with this policy may result in the termination of contracts, removal from our approved supplier lists, and, where appropriate, reporting to relevant authorities.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

We are committed to working only with suppliers who share our values. Gardeners Bellingham requires suppliers to confirm that they do not tolerate modern slavery within their own operations or supply chains. We assess the modern slavery risks associated with the goods and services we procure, with particular attention to higher-risk categories such as outsourced labour and products sourced from regions with weaker labour protections.

To support this, we undertake supplier reviews and audits that may include site visits, document checks, and discussions with management and, where appropriate, workers. These audits are designed to verify compliance with labour standards, working hours, wage practices, and health and safety requirements. Where we identify shortcomings, we work with suppliers to implement corrective action plans within clear timeframes. If a supplier fails to make adequate improvements, we reserve the right to reconsider our relationship and, if necessary, bring it to an end.

Training and Awareness

Gardeners Bellingham provides training and guidance to relevant staff to help them recognise indicators of modern slavery and understand how to respond to concerns. This includes managers, supervisors, and members of teams who are involved in procurement, recruitment, and supplier management. Ongoing awareness-raising forms part of our commitment to ensuring that modern slavery risks are understood and addressed throughout the business.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage anyone who has concerns about possible modern slavery within our operations or supply chain to report them as soon as possible. Concerns can be raised internally through line managers or senior management. We also support the use of independent reporting channels, such as external advisors or recognised reporting bodies, where individuals feel more comfortable doing so.

Gardeners Bellingham is committed to protecting anyone who raises a concern in good faith. We do not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against individuals who report suspected wrongdoing. All reports are treated seriously, handled sensitively, and, where appropriate, investigated promptly and thoroughly. If credible concerns are identified, we will take immediate steps to address the issue and prevent recurrence.

Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process requiring continual evaluation and improvement. Gardeners Bellingham reviews this Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement and our related policies and procedures on an annual basis. As part of this review, we consider changes in our operations, developments in best practice, and any issues identified through audits, investigations, or stakeholder feedback.

Where improvements are identified, we update our procedures, strengthen supplier requirements, and refine our training and communication. By regularly monitoring our performance and working collaboratively with staff, suppliers, and other stakeholders, Gardeners Bellingham aims to reduce the risk of modern slavery and contribute to the wider effort to eradicate it from the gardening and landscaping industry and beyond.

This statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Bellingham and will be reviewed and updated annually.