Gardeners Crook Log Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Crook Log to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to uphold human rights, promote fair working conditions, and act with integrity in all our commercial relationships.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Crook Log has a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance stance towards modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and all forms of exploitation. We are committed to conducting our business in a manner that respects the dignity and rights of all individuals who work for us or with us, whether directly or indirectly.

We expect the same high standards from everyone we work with, including employees, contractors, agency workers, and suppliers. Any evidence or suspicion that modern slavery may be present in our operations or supply chains will be treated with utmost seriousness, investigated promptly, and addressed decisively.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners Crook Log operates in the horticulture and gardening sector, providing services and products to residential and commercial customers. Our supply chains include growers, nurseries, equipment manufacturers, clothing and protective equipment providers, and various service providers who support our operations.

We recognise that certain parts of the horticultural and agricultural supply chain may present higher risks of labour exploitation. We are committed to identifying, understanding, and mitigating these risks through a structured and ongoing approach.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We require all suppliers to operate in line with our ethical standards and to comply with relevant labour, employment, and human rights legislation. As part of our supplier approval and ongoing management process, we:

Assess new suppliers for potential risks related to modern slavery, including geographic, sector-specific, and labour-practice risks.

Communicate our zero-tolerance policy on modern slavery and expect suppliers to cascade similar standards through their own supply chains.

Reserve the right to conduct audits, assessments, or site visits, either directly or through independent third parties, where we identify a higher level of risk or where concerns are raised.

Require suppliers to cooperate fully with our due diligence procedures and to provide accurate, up-to-date information on their labour practices.

Where non-compliance or concerns are identified, we will seek remedial action and improvements within clear timeframes. If the required improvements are not made, Gardeners Crook Log may suspend or terminate the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We encourage all employees, suppliers, contractors, and other stakeholders to report any concerns or suspicions of modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to Gardeners Crook Log. Reports can be made through existing internal reporting lines or directly to senior management.

All concerns raised will be treated seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated promptly. We will protect, as far as reasonably possible, the confidentiality of individuals who raise concerns in good faith and will not tolerate any form of victimisation or retaliation against those who speak up.

Where appropriate, we will cooperate with law enforcement and relevant authorities to address substantiated instances of modern slavery or trafficking.

Training and Awareness

Gardeners Crook Log is committed to building awareness and understanding of modern slavery risks within our organisation. Relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and site operations, are provided with guidance on identifying potential warning signs of exploitation and the steps to take if they have concerns.

We will continue to review and enhance our training and guidance materials to ensure that they reflect current best practice and legal requirements.

Monitoring, Governance, and Annual Review

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery rests with the senior management of Gardeners Crook Log. They ensure that appropriate policies, procedures, and controls are in place and that these are implemented effectively across the business.

This Modern Slavery Statement will be reviewed annually, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, our business operations, or identified risks. As part of this review, we will evaluate the effectiveness of our measures, audit findings, training activities, and any reported concerns, with the aim of continually improving our approach.

By maintaining a clear zero-tolerance stance, robust supplier oversight, accessible reporting channels, and a commitment to regular review, Gardeners Crook Log strives to play a proactive role in the global effort to eliminate modern slavery and human trafficking.