Modern Slavery Statement for Gardening Mitcham

Gardening Mitcham is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all areas of our business and supply chains. This modern slavery statement explains our approach to identifying, preventing and addressing risks related to forced labour, servitude and other forms of exploitation. We recognise that a clear, enforceable policy and consistent oversight are essential to protect workers and maintain ethical sourcing across gardening services, horticulture supplies and contractor relationships.

Our Commitment and Zero Tolerance Policy

We operate a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of modern slavery or human trafficking. This zero tolerance extends across our direct employees, agency staff and subcontractors. We require that all workers are free to leave employment after reasonable notice, paid fairly and treated with dignity. The Gardening Mitcham modern slavery policy is enforced by senior management and reflected in contractual terms with suppliers and partners.

Supplier Expectations and Due Diligence

Gardening Mitcham sets out clear expectations for suppliers and contractors. These include:

• Verification of labour practices and proof of legal right to work for all employees
• Transparent subcontracting and prohibition of third party fees that bind workers
• Compliant recruitment practices and safe accommodation where provided

Our procurement contracts contain clauses that require suppliers to comply with our anti-slavery standards and to allow audits. We use a risk-based approach to supplier assessments, prioritising those in higher risk sectors such as seasonal labour, nursery production and landscape maintenance. Gardening Mitcham anti-slavery statement is embedded into tender documentation and supplier onboarding to ensure clear expectations are set from the start.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

We maintain multiple, confidential reporting channels so that workers, suppliers and the public can raise concerns about suspected exploitation. Reports can be made through protected internal channels, anonymous reporting systems and via designated compliance officers. All reports are treated seriously, investigated promptly and followed by corrective action where required. We do not tolerate retaliation against anyone who raises concerns in good faith.

To reinforce accountability we provide regular training for staff and suppliers on recognising signs of modern slavery and how to report concerns. Training materials include scenario-based learning, supplier briefings and mandatory sessions for procurement teams. Our slavery and human trafficking statement highlights the responsibility of managers to escalate and remediate issues swiftly.

Supplier audits form a central part of our compliance programme. We conduct periodic on-site and desk-based audits, review payroll records, interview workers and assess accommodation where relevant. Audit findings lead to action plans and timebound corrective measures. Persistent non-compliance can result in contract termination and referral to appropriate authorities. Gardening Mitcham supply chain audits are logged and tracked to ensure closure of identified risk items.

Monitoring, KPIs and Annual Review

We monitor the effectiveness of our anti-slavery measures using performance indicators such as number of supplier audits completed, issues raised and corrective actions implemented. An annual review of this modern slavery statement and associated policies is conducted by the senior leadership team to ensure continued relevance, improvement and alignment with legal obligations. This review includes risk mapping, policy updates and consultation with key stakeholders.

In conclusion, Gardening Mitcham maintains a firm stance against modern slavery across all operations and relationships. Our combined approach of a zero-tolerance policy, rigorous supplier audits, secure reporting channels and an annual review process creates a structured and transparent framework to prevent exploitation. We remain committed to continuous improvement, increased supplier engagement and strengthening safeguards that protect vulnerable workers throughout our gardening services and supply chains.