Gardeners Kew Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Kew has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our business operations and supply chains. It reflects our ongoing commitment to acting ethically, with integrity and transparency in all business relationships.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Kew maintains a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced or compulsory labour, and child labour. We expect the same high standards from all those we work with, including suppliers, contractors, agents, and other business partners. Any form of exploitation is fundamentally incompatible with our values and with the trust placed in us by our customers, employees, and wider communities.

We are committed to ensuring that slavery and human trafficking have no place in our own operations or in any part of the supply chains that support our gardening products, services, and projects.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners Kew operates within the horticulture and garden services sector, sourcing plants, materials, tools, and related goods and services from a range of regional and international suppliers. We recognise that certain segments of these supply chains, particularly where manual labour and seasonal work are involved, can carry a higher risk of labour exploitation.

We are working to map our supply chains and to prioritise risk assessments in areas where modern slavery risks may be more acute, such as the production and transport of raw materials and the provision of outsourced labour.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We require our suppliers and contractors to uphold our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery. As part of our supplier due diligence, we seek assurances that they comply with all applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws, and that they maintain fair and safe working conditions.

Gardeners Kew is introducing a structured programme of supplier audits and assessments. These may include self-assessment questionnaires, requests for supporting documentation, and, where proportionate and feasible, on-site visits or third-party reviews. Our aim is to verify that suppliers implement robust policies against forced labour, provide fair wages and working hours, and allow freedom of movement and association.

Where non-compliance or significant concerns are identified, we will engage with the supplier to agree corrective actions and timescales. If a supplier is unable or unwilling to address serious issues, we will consider suspending or terminating the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Kew encourages a culture of openness where concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices can be raised without fear of retaliation. Employees, contractors, and individuals within our supply chains are encouraged to report any suspicions of exploitation, trafficking, or unsafe working conditions through our established internal reporting routes or to senior management.

All reports of suspected modern slavery will be treated seriously and handled sensitively. We will investigate concerns promptly and, where appropriate, work with relevant external organisations or authorities. We are committed to protecting any person who raises a concern in good faith from detrimental treatment or victimisation.

Training and Awareness

To support the effective implementation of this statement, Gardeners Kew is developing guidance and awareness materials for relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and on-site supervision of labour. Training focuses on recognising signs of modern slavery, understanding risk factors in our sector, and knowing how to respond appropriately to concerns.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior management of Gardeners Kew. They are accountable for ensuring that appropriate policies, due diligence processes, and controls are in place and that these are reviewed regularly for effectiveness.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed on an annual basis and updated as necessary to reflect our progress, emerging risks, and changes in legislation or industry best practice. As our approach develops, we will continue to refine our supplier engagement, auditing, training, and reporting mechanisms to strengthen our defences against modern slavery across all aspects of our business.

This statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Kew and constitutes our Modern Slavery Statement for the current financial year.