Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Hook Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Hook has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking from occurring within our operations and supply chains. Gardeners Hook is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business relationships, and to implementing effective systems and controls to safeguard against any form of modern slavery.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Hook has a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, servitude, and child labour. We will not knowingly engage with any individual, organisation, or supplier involved in such practices. This commitment is integral to our values and forms part of the standards we expect from everyone who works with or for us.

We expect all employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers to uphold this policy and to act responsibly and transparently. Any breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter and may result in termination of employment or commercial relationships, as well as reporting to relevant authorities where appropriate.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Our supply chain includes providers of goods, materials, equipment, and services that support our gardening operations and business activities. Gardeners Hook seeks to work only with suppliers who share our commitment to ethical conduct and respect for human rights.

We communicate our expectations to suppliers through contractual obligations, codes of conduct, and direct engagement. We require suppliers to ensure that slavery and human trafficking are not taking place in their own operations or further down their supply chains.

To support this, Gardeners Hook operates a programme of supplier due diligence and audits that may include, where appropriate, site visits, document reviews, and discussions with management and workers. These audits are used to assess labour practices, working conditions, and compliance with our modern slavery standards. Where non-compliance is identified, we expect timely corrective action plans and monitor follow-up progress. Persistent or serious failures to meet our standards may lead to suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Concerns and Speaking Up

Gardeners Hook encourages a culture of openness where concerns about modern slavery or unethical behaviour can be raised without fear of retaliation. All employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to speak up if they suspect any risk of modern slavery in our operations or supply chains.

Concerns can be reported to line managers, senior management, or other designated internal channels in line with our internal reporting procedures. Reports can be made in good faith and will be treated sensitively and, where possible, confidentially. We do not tolerate any victimisation or disadvantage of individuals who raise concerns or assist in investigations.

Every report is taken seriously and investigated promptly. Where evidence of modern slavery or related abuses is found, Gardeners Hook will take appropriate remedial and disciplinary action and, where necessary, will cooperate with law enforcement and relevant authorities.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Hook is committed to increasing awareness of modern slavery risks across our business. Relevant employees receive training to help them recognise indicators of modern slavery, understand our zero-tolerance policy, and know how to report concerns. We regularly review our guidance and materials to ensure they remain effective and aligned with current best practice.

We recognise that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility and requires continuous improvement. We will keep our systems, processes, and risk assessments under regular review, and adapt our approach as our business and supply chains evolve.

Annual Review and Governance

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every year by Gardeners Hook senior management. The annual review considers the effectiveness of our actions, the findings from supplier audits, the number and nature of any reported concerns, and developments in legislation or best practice.

Following each review, we update our procedures, training, and supplier requirements where necessary to strengthen our response. This statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Hook and will be updated and published annually to reflect our ongoing commitment to combating modern slavery and protecting human rights in all aspects of our business.