Gardeners Rayners Lane Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Rayners Lane takes to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious crime and a violation of fundamental human rights, and we are committed to acting ethically, transparently, and with integrity in all our business relationships.

Our Zero-Tolerance Approach

Gardeners Rayners Lane operates a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, child labour, and exploitation. This commitment applies to our own activities and to everyone directly linked to our business, including suppliers, subcontractors, and labour agencies. We do not knowingly engage or work with any party that fails to uphold these standards, and we reserve the right to terminate relationships where there is evidence of non-compliance.

We expect all individuals working for or with Gardeners Rayners Lane, at every level, to share this commitment. Our expectations are reflected in our internal policies and in the standards we set for suppliers and partners.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Gardeners Rayners Lane provides gardening and related outdoor maintenance services. Our supply chain includes, but is not limited to, the sourcing of plants, gardening materials, tools, equipment, workwear, and contracted services. While many of our suppliers are based in the United Kingdom, we recognise that risks may exist at different stages of the supply chain, including in the sourcing and manufacture of materials and products.

We seek to work with reputable suppliers who can demonstrate responsible employment practices, respect for human rights, and compliance with applicable labour laws.

Supplier Standards and Audits

We communicate our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery to key suppliers and expect them to implement and maintain equivalent standards within their own businesses and supply chains. As part of our supplier due diligence, we may request information about labour practices, recruitment processes, and the use of subcontractors.

Where we identify higher-risk suppliers, we may conduct audits or request evidence of third-party audits or certifications. These audits are intended to assess working conditions, verify compliance with relevant legislation, and confirm that workers are employed voluntarily and on fair terms. If concerns are identified, we will engage with the supplier to agree on corrective actions and improvement plans. Persistent or serious non-compliance may result in the suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Training and Awareness

We aim to ensure that relevant employees understand the risks and indicators of modern slavery. Training and guidance are provided to managers and teams involved in procurement, supplier management, and recruitment, so they can identify potential issues and escalate concerns appropriately. We encourage staff to stay informed about ethical labour practices and to consider these factors when selecting and working with suppliers.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Rayners Lane encourages anyone who has concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected with our business to raise them without fear of retaliation. Concerns can be reported internally to line managers or senior management. We take all reports seriously and will investigate them promptly and sensitively.

We are committed to protecting the confidentiality of individuals who report concerns in good faith. No person will suffer detrimental treatment for reporting a suspicion of modern slavery or for refusing to participate in activities that could constitute modern slavery or human trafficking.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

We recognise that preventing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility and that our approach must be regularly evaluated and improved. Gardeners Rayners Lane reviews this Modern Slavery Statement on an annual basis, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation, guidance, or our business operations.

As part of the annual review, we consider feedback from employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders, as well as any incidents or reports made during the year. We use this information to refine our policies, strengthen our due diligence processes, and enhance training and awareness initiatives. Our goal is to continually reduce the risk of modern slavery within our operations and supply chains.

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